Google Translate Adds 110 New Languages with Advanced AI Model PaLM 2

Google Translate Adds 110 New Languages with Advanced AI Model PaLM 2

Google Translate is undergoing its largest expansion ever, adding 110 new languages to its platform. This update, powered by Google's PaLM 2 large language model, aims to provide accurate translations for a wider array of languages, now covering those spoken by approximately 614 million people, or about 8% of the global population. The list includes widely spoken languages, dialects, and languages native to smaller communities. Notably, African languages have seen significant additions, with Fon, Kikongo, Luo, Ga, Swati, Venda, and Wolof joining the platform. 

Among the most widely spoken new additions are Cantonese and Punjabi (Shahmukhi), the most spoken language in Pakistan. The update also includes languages such as the Sicilian version of Italian, Manx, a nearly extinct Celtic language from the Isle of Man, and Tok Pisin, a creole from Papua New Guinea.

Image credit: Google Development 

The PaLM 2 large language model has been instrumental in enabling this expansion, enhancing Google Translate's ability to learn and shift efficiently between languages. PaLM 2 is particularly skilled at handling closely related languages, such as Awadhi and Marwadi to Hindi, or various French creoles. Its advanced capabilities allow for better management of linguistic nuances and variations, resulting in more accurate and culturally relevant translations. For languages with regional dialects and different spelling standards, like Romani, Google Translate opts for versions best understood by the majority.

PaLM 2, originally designed to facilitate communication between humans and AI, has also been used to teach robots to perform tasks and process human commands into actionable steps. This same technology now enhances Google Translate, making it accessible on the web and through the Google Translate app on Android and iOS.