Only The Right Answers

Only The Right Answers

Can Social Networks Grow Without Translation?

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After all these years, it would seem that there has been no heavy push forward to try and create a usable international online social network which can be used in real time.

One needs to start somewhere, and even with the imperfections of machine translation, it is the best choice at the moment.

So many people, focus on the fact that machine translation is not 100 percent perfect. This should not stop us from trying to use what current technologies we have currently to help break down language barriers.

So, the larger question is. Is it helpful to provide a not-so-perfect way to help people communicate with others?

If the answer is "No" then real time international social networks are doomed.

Technology is consumer driven.

If social networks refuse to connect their current international fractured communities they run today, which are limited by language barriers that they currently operate, these virtual worlds will be nothing more than the real world we live in today.

On the other hand, if attempts are made to break down language barriers, then the virtual world will create something that the real world can't match. The ability to share feelings, thoughts and ideas without the need to understand the language of the person providing these.

Again, out-of-the-box perfection is not a requirement. When you travel to another country there is no requirement to know the native language of your destination prior to boarding the plane.

So, let's try starting here: In most social networks there are 3 types of people;

1. Those who want to communicate and have no desire to learn new languages.
2. Those who want to communicate and learn basics of a new languages.
3. Those who want to master the reading, writing speaking of a new language.

Skype has created a new feature called "Public Chats" this allows the Skype user to create a chat where basically anyone, on a world wide basis can come and join. There are many options, to limit who can join, but these chats can be configured to be open to all.

This application is an attempt to help get there. It is nothing more than a "Good Start".

This application translates Skype chats, including "Public Chats" in real time. It does this using 38 language pairs for 14 different languages.

For those that are trying to master a new langauge, it speaks 10 languages as well, so you can hear your words after translation spoken. The application also has the ability to speak Skype chats messages without using the translation ability in 10 languages. Kind of a "Chat Answering Machine" for those busy moments at or near your computer.

More information on this Skype Extra, which also can be found in the new Skype 3.0 for Windows version under

"Tools->Do More->Get Extras->Productivity"

can be found here:

http://testing.onlytherightanswers.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=55


Quick Links for Skype information:

Skype for Business Skype Store USA SkypeOut SkypeIn Skype Voicemail