A new translation and language recognition system could soon allow you to speak another language instantly, thanks to electrodes embedded in your mouth and throat.
This cutting-edge technology is being developed by professors at Carnegie Mellon University and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany. Lead researcher, Professor Alex Waibel, stated, “Our vision is to create technology that completely removes language barriers.”
The system consists of a device that can translate words without the need for vocalization. Electrodes attached to the cheeks and throat will measure the electrical signals generated by the muscle movements of words formed in the mouth and convert them into audible speech in another language.
However, users cannot move freely with the electrodes attached to their face, so researchers need to conduct further studies to miniaturize the device and determine the optimal placement for the sensors.
Another prototype includes a pair of glasses that project translated words onto a virtual screen for the wearer, similar to subtitles in movies.
Waibel and his team are breaking down language barriers not only with innovative devices but also through groundbreaking software.
Previously, speech-to-speech translation systems were limited by topics, such as shopping, health check-ups, and hotel bookings. This limitation stemmed from the complex labor involved in programming the software. However, with new technology, Waibel’s team has designed a system that is no longer topic-restricted.
The current system can instantly translate English into Spanish and German across a variety of scenarios, such as lectures, television broadcasts, and speeches at conferences. The team plans to expand the range of topics and integrate more languages in the coming year.
M.T. (according to Discovery)
