Get ready for faster language translations on the move. Google has introduced a big update to its translate mobile app, enabling users to instantly translate foreign words using the camera on your phone.
To be fair, Google Translate for Android has offered a real-time conversation mode since 2013, but the new version adds a much speedier version. To use it, you just tap the mic symbol, start speaking in a selected language, tap again and Google Translate will automatically recognize the languages being spoken. It will keep listening to translate through your conversation.
The second big update is the integration of Word Lens. The Translate app already allowed you to take a picture of text and have it translated into one of 36 languages but you can now get instant translation. Pointing your camera at a sign will translate it while retaining the same typography. It currently works for translation from English to and from French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.
