A Swiss startup is set to revolutionize the way humans and machines communicate. Interprefy announced the launch of Aivia, an AI-based speech translation tool that can translate conversations in real time. This world-first technology will allow people of various languages to break down communication barriers more effectively.
Interprefy was established eight years ago, focused on interpretation services for remote press conferences, interviews with astronauts, and other large-scale events. Since its inception, the company has supported over 50,000 meetings.
With the launch of Aivia, the task of switching between languages during conversations will be made easier. The tool, designed to be used both live and online, uses three advanced AI technologies: Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR), Machine Translation, and Synthetic Voice Generation. In addition, the system relies on a custom benchmarking toolkit to ensure the best AI solution is chosen for the specific language combination. A glossary extraction tool is also implemented to make sure the machine is prepped with relevant keywords, names, and abbreviations.
The potential for Aivia to reach beyond its current capability is limitless. Founder and CEO, Oddmund Braaten, wants this AI speech translator to make simultaneous translations more accessible and accurate, helping to support organisations and events with a smaller budget. He believes that Aivia is the most flexible and high-performing AI translation system on the market, with plans to offer the service in 24 languages and regional accents. Interprefy hopes to add more languages in the near future, as online translation tools become more popular.
While AI is considered to be more of a cost-efficient approach compared to a human translator, Braaten recognizes the importance of a real interpreter. A skilled linguist is able to pick up on nuances and provide more accurate translations, especially in sensitive scenarios. However, AI can still be used complementarily in scenarios that have low risks and little nuance.
The launch of Aivia opens up the door to more cost-effective translation services and better communication no matter the scenarios. In a time where international business is becoming more of a reality, this revolutionary technology is set to bridge the language gap.
