Katarzyna Petru
Google Translate just got the biggest update in years – and it looks like it's aiming straight for the language learning app market that Duolingo has dominated for a long time. The AI-based features rolled out this week not only allow for text translation but also actively practice the language, in the form of short, level-appropriate lessons.
Learning a language like in educational apps
The new feature works very simply: the app asks what level you are at – from "Beginner," through "Intermediate," to "Advanced." A "Just Starting" mode will also be available soon. You can then enter your motivation for learning the language or choose one of the suggestions.
Based on this, the artificial intelligence generates short scenarios to practice – for example, a conversation about meal times. You can decide whether you want to practice listening (you listen to a recording and choose known words) or speaking (you repeat phrases that appear on the screen). Google claims that the mechanism was created in collaboration with language learning experts and is based on the latest research in this field.
Learning a language like in educational apps
The new feature works very simply: the app asks what level you are at – from 'Beginner', through 'Intermediate', to 'Advanced'. Soon, there will also be a 'Just Starting' mode. Then, you can enter your motivation for learning the language or choose one of the suggestions.
Based on this, artificial intelligence generates short scenarios for practice – e.g. a conversation about meal times. You can decide whether you want to practise listening (you listen to a recording and select known words) or speaking (you repeat phrases that appear on the screen). Google claims that the mechanism was created in collaboration with language learning experts and is based on the latest research in this field.
Enhanced live conversation
The second new feature is an update to the Live Conversation mode. Previously, the app translated statements only after they were completed. Now Google Translate shows the translation in real-time, during your statement. The conversation partner can read the text alongside what you are saying. If they prefer to hear the whole thing, the app will read the translation after the sentence has finished.
This option is already available in over 70 languages – from Arabic and French to Spanish and Korean, all the way to Tamil – and is accessible in the USA, India, and Mexico.
Competition for Duolingo?
At first glance, the new feature seems simpler than what Duolingo offers, but the fact that it is part of free Google Translate could change the game. The app is available on practically every smartphone, so millions of users could gain a free AI-powered language learning system.
Will this be enough to threaten Duolingo's position? Time will tell in the coming months.
