Japanese govt plans to develop upgraded AI interpreter

Japan's Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry plans to develop a new technology that enables smooth communication using AI technology. — AFP

The Japanese government plans to start developing simultaneous interpretation technology using artificial intelligence in fiscal 2020, as the number of foreign residents is expected to increase further under a newly introduced resident status for holders of certain specified skills.

The new technology will cover 15 languages, including English, Chinese and Korean as well as Portuguese and Mongolian. The government aims to put the technology into practical use by 2025.