Skype introduces new translation service
Skype, the leading provider of VoIP calls that boasts of 100 million users worldwide, has expanded its services with a new translation service.
However, it is not the machines that are going to convert the meaning and words from one language into the other. Skype has invited human translators and interpreters to contribute to intercultural communication, which VoIP naturally make possible.
“The interpreter service is being offered in conjunction with Voxeo, a company that provides the background technology hand-off to the interpreters, and Language Line Services, the company that is responsible for providing the actual interpreters,” www.newsfactor.com informs.
When conversing via a Skype application, the users can now request a live interpreter, which will cost them $2.99 per minute.
The service offers translators and interpreters of 150 languages. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. On average, it takes about 45 seconds to get switched to it. One needs to have a SkypeOut account to run the service and the billing can go to this account.
The translation service can be useful for face-to-face large-group conferences and meetings. International businessmen sitting at one table and striking a deal have two options of using the Skype interpreters. First they can get connected to the service through the handset and then pass it to each other. The second scenario is that they have to acquire the newly announced Skype-compatible speakerphone.
Probably the service is not going to be the most popular solution, but it can sometimes be resorted to save a deal.
Skype, VoIP, translation service
Technorati Tags: Skype, VoIP, translation service
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