Balochi among 110 new languages added to Google Translate

With the help of AI, and LLMs, Google has included more than 100 languages in ever growing intra-language translation platform. Now the Balochi language is also added in the translation database.

In a recent blog post on Google's official website, Google Translate is highlighted for its pivotal role in bridging linguistic gaps, fostering global connectivity, and enhancing understanding across cultures. The platform, renowned for its integration of cutting-edge technologies, has made significant strides in accessibility.

Notably, in 2022, Google Translate introduced 24 new languages through Zero-Shot Machine Translation, a revolutionary approach enabling translation without prior examples.

The latest development is the introduction of the "1,000 Languages Initiative," underscoring Google's commitment to developing AI models that cater to the world's most spoken languages. "Now, we’re using AI to expand the variety of languages we support," stated the blog, emphasizing the deployment of 110 new languages — the platform's largest expansion to date. This expansion is set to benefit over 614 million speakers, encompassing approximately 8% of the global population. Among these languages are major global tongues and languages spoken by indigenous communities, some with minimal native speakers but active revitalization efforts.

Read: Google Translate now speaks Pashto and Sindhi

Significantly, a quarter of the new languages originate from Africa, marking Google Translate's most extensive African language expansion to date. Languages such as Fon, Kikongo, Luo, Ga, Swati, Venda, and Wolof are included in this diverse update, reflecting Google's commitment to linguistic diversity and inclusivity.

The newly supported languages encompass a wide spectrum, from Afar, a tonal language spoken in Djibouti, Eritrea, and Ethiopia, to Cantonese, fulfilling a long-standing user request. Additionally, the inclusion of Manx, NKo, Punjabi (Shahmukhi), Tamazight (Amazigh), and Tok Pisin further enriches the linguistic landscape accessible through Google Translate.

Understanding the complexities of language variation, Google Translate prioritizes commonly used varieties and dialects within its models. This approach ensures a nuanced and inclusive representation of languages, supporting regional distinctions and diverse linguistic traditions.

As technology evolves, Google continues to collaborate with linguists and native speakers, aiming to expand language varieties and adapt to evolving spelling conventions.

These enhancements are available across the Google Translate app on both Android and iOS platforms, facilitating seamless language translation and cultural exchange worldwide.