Archive notice: This article was originally published on January 29, 2008. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
Munich-based Linguatec Sprachentechnologien has introduced Personal Translator 2008 World Edition, the latest version of its translation software. The program includes seven language pairs for the first time. Linguatec uses Smart Translation technology, which automatically detects a text’s source language before translation.
Spokesperson Elisabeth Bauer said human language was varied and creative, and metaphors in particular were difficult for translation programs. The Linguatec software considers the context surrounding a word, using algorithms to search for keywords in the same sentence and across sentences, so the appropriate vocabulary is selected. Its SmartCorrect function recognises and automatically corrects typing and spelling errors before translation.
The software is available in three editions. The reduced Home Edition is aimed at private users, Advanced has a substantially expanded vocabulary, and Professional is intended for companies and translation agencies. It provides its own word processor and integrates with Microsoft Office, and it also works in internet browsers: users can point to a word to see its translation or hear its pronunciation.
The World Edition includes German–English, German–French, English–French, English–Italian, English–Portuguese, English–Spanish and English–Chinese. Prices were €99 for Home, €199 for Advanced and €499 for Professional.
