Skype is currently in the process of expanding the availability of its real-time translation feature, integrating the tool with calls which are made to landlines as well as to mobile phones.
“Since its introduction in 2014, Skype Translator has made it easier for you to connect with people around the world on Skype no matter where they are. We love bringing people together, and so today, we’re excited to announce the next milestone for Skype Translator: voice translation for calls to mobiles and landlines* on Skype Preview. You can now use Skype to call people on their phones and communicate across languages, even if they do not have Skype.”
You will however still need three things so as to access the tool - You will need to sign up for the Windows Insider Program, along with the latest beta version of the Skype app and you will also need some paid Skype credits.
Image Source: blogs.skype.com
The translation will work in a similar manner in which it does with regular Skype calls. All you need to do is to bring up the dialer, toggle the switch which is marked “Translate,” and then select the language of your choice. When the person on the other end receives a call, they will first be informed through a played message that the call is being recorded and translated. The remaining call will then take place with short delays waiting for the conversation to be translated.
Currently, the Skype Translator works with just nine spoken languages - English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese (Mandarin), Italian, Portuguese (Brazilian), Arabic, and Russian. This automatic translation, which has been powered by deep learning, comes with some errors however. Still, it is most certainly better than not having any conversation at all.
The latest version of Skype Preview includes the following additional features as per the official blog:
- Introduce friends and family on Skype by sharing their Skype contact details.
- Capture and share video messages with friends and family on Skype—even if they’re not online.
- Manage your conversations and save time by marking conversations as read or unread.
- Don’t miss another call by forwarding them to a mobile or landline.