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ZDNET's key takeaways
Google Translate now has a real-time translation feature.
The app also offers a Duolingo-like language learning experience.
Users in select countries can access both features for free in the Google Translate app.
Google Translate has been a go-to source for people's translating needs for nearly two decades. While AI has been powering the tool since its inception, generative AI's advanced language processing has made it possible for Google to unlock all-new experiences that level it up.
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You can now speak to Google Translate and have it translate your input in real time to another language, the company said Tuesday. Google also introduced a language learning experience powered by generative AI that gamifies learning a new language. Users can access both for free today.
ZDNET has yet to test either feature. For more on the features and how to access, keep reading below.
Real-time translation
With the new feature, users simply click on "Live translate" in the Translate app for Android or iOS, speak into the mic, and hear the translation out loud. Users will also be able to follow along with a transcript of the conversation onscreen that switches between both languages on the device. These capabilities are already available today for users in US, India, and Mexico, according to Google.
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The goal is to create a more seamless handoff between in-person exchanges for more natural, free-flowing conversations. Translating languages in real time is one area in which generative AI tools excel because they have enough data to interpret not only the direct translations of the text but also the context around it that gives it its nuanced meanings.
New learning experience
Historically, Google Translate has been a platform for helping translate content in a language you don't know. Now, users can also use it to learn more about a new language. The new language practice feature creates tailored sessions for you, adapting to your skill level. Google said that each exercise was developed with learning experts.
You will be given the option to listen to conversations, tap on the words you hear, or practice speaking. To access the feature, you just have to hit "practice" on the app, set your skill level and goals, and access your customized session. This feature is being rolled out in beta in the e Translate app for Android and iOS starting today, first available to English speakers practicing Spanish and French, and Spanish, French, and Portuguese speakers practicing English.
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The tech industry at large is releasing more AI features timed with back-to-school season. For example, Anthropic launched a new Learning Mode available to everyone in its Claude.ai chatbot and Claude Code, meant to encourage user learning as opposed to answer generation. OpenAI released its own Study Mode, which similarly works with users to arrive at a conclusion (though to varying degrees of success).
In perhaps one of the best AI deals available to students right now, Google made its AI Pro plan, which includes all of the best of Google's AI suite of tools, including expanded access to Gemini 2.5 Pro, Deep Research, Veo 3, Jules, and, NotebookLM, free to college students, saving them the $20 per month subscription.