What is Auto-Translate?
Auto-translate is an almost instantaneous translation of text from one language to another using machine algorithms. Since it relies on a machine, sometimes the nuance of what’s said is missed. The incorporation of AI has improved the accuracy of many platforms, so it’s important to keep in mind, since we’re in a period of rapid technological change.
How Does Auto-Translate Work?
Auto-translate takes text, in this case either from the provided transcript or from auto-generated captions, and runs it through a complex algorithm. These algorithms are designed to mimic human translators, with the goal of capturing the meaning of the original text. However, since all languages rely on context, the algorithm also has to factor that in. That’s where machine learning comes in. Once it’s done its best to capture the original meaning in the new language, the algorithm sends the newly translated text back for display.
Enabling Auto-Translate on Zoom
Zoom is a business platform as well as a social one. Therefore, they’ve made auto-translation relatively straightforward. Participants can have captions translated into their own languages, it supports multiple languages simultaneously, and it even works with the call transcript if live transcription is enabled.
Note: These directions are current as of February 2025.
- Join the Zoom call.
- Click the closed caption button.
- Click the arrow button next to the closed caption button.
- Choose ‘translation’.
- Pick the language you speak.
- Click save.
- Enjoy.
View Zoom’s support page for auto-translate: Link.
Making the Auto-Translation Experience Better
Auto-translation works best with clear, precise audio. That means presenters should speak at a measured pace when possible. Additionally, minimize background noise and distractions as much as possible. High-quality recording equipment, when used properly, can also provide benefits, but it is not strictly necessary.
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Want to know more about accessible communication? Check out Accessible Communication 101.