Microsoft just kicked off
Skype's Translator preview,
which, as the name suggests, can automatically translate speech in
real-time. While English and Spanish are the only supported spoken
languages at the moment, the feature can also translate instant
messaging chats in 45 languages. Microsoft first showed off Skype's
Translator, which relies on machine learning to handle its language
gymnastics, back in May
.
And it seems to have made quite a bit of progress since then -- at
least, according to a tooth-achingly sweet video (see below) between
high school students in the US and Mexico. The feature's only available
on Windows 8.1 devices at the moment, and don't expect flawless
functionality since it's just a preview. But it's a sign that even aging
software can still make your
Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy dreams come true.
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