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Technology
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2006-10-25 22:23:55-04
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Now, a computer that translates as you speak
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London, Oct 26: U.S. researchers are developing a device called "Tower of Babel" that will make it possible for users to silently mouth a word in their own language and have it translated and said in another. The researchers said the effect was like watching a television programme that had been dubbed. The system is still not foolproof, but experts say the technology is "within reach." Current translation systems use voice recognition software that makes conversations difficult. Users have to speak out loud and then have to wait for the translation to be read out. The new device uses electrodes attached to the neck and face to read movements as the user silently says words and phrases. A computer then processes the sounds being formed and builds the sounds into words in another language read by a synthetic voice. Two prototypes currently exist; a Chinese to English translator and an English to Spanish or German translator. "The idea is that you can mouth words in English and they will come out in Chinese or another language," New Scientist quoted researcher Tanja Schultz as saying. "This is showing the technology is really within reach," said Chuck Jorgensen, a researcher at NASA's Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, California .
The device could put an end to the need for an interpreter or foreign dictionary while travelling abroad. Additionally it could also help people learn the new language.
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