AI in Interpreting: Slator Pro Guide

Slator's Pro Guide: AI in Interpreting is an absolute must-read for all providers of interpreting services and solutions. Here, the authors give a quick snapshot of what the newest applications of AI and large language models (LLMs) look like in interpreting.

This Slator Pro Guide will bring you up to speed on what value AI can bring to your company and the new interpreting workflows, service models, and speech AI capabilities now available to you.

The guide covers 10 one-page, actionable case studies-thematically designed and presented as vibrant infographics drawn from research and interviews with some of the leading interpreting service providers in the industry.

The ten use cases highlight new areas of growth, innovative models for service delivery, and novel workflows in interpretation made possible by the recent developments in LLMs, speech-to-text, and speech synthesis.

We will illustrate how AI speech translation solutions are being leveraged to open up language access across corporate, government, and healthcare settings, cutting across a wide variety of settings and service delivery models.

The guide also discusses AI as an interpreter tool and co-pilot, as well as its capability to optimize operations and extract insights from interpreted interactions.

Each use case describes the underlying concept and practical implications. An adoption and value-add score is also provided to reflect the industry's current level of uptake for the application as well as the additional value that it delivers to end clients.

We explain how the technology works and offer a brief list of leading AI solution providers currently on the market.

We expand on the new opportunities and benefits that each use case presents for interpreting stakeholders and carry out an impact analysis for the interpreting sector.

We also identify key risks and limitations to watch out for, which need to be considered in the adoption process.

The guide provides a higher-level overview of the key and impactful applications that can serve as a launching pad for stakeholders to make strategic decisions about adopting AI in interpreting technology and service models.

This Pro Guide is a must-read and time-saving briefing on how AI is revolutionizing the interpretation landscape.

Smartcat's Series C Funding, YouTube Dubs Launch, Viva Translate Closes Down

Slator- Language Industry Intelligence

Florian and Esther discuss the language industry news of the week, where they give their impressions from SlatorCon Silicon Valley and touch upon the findings from the 2024 ALC Industry Survey.

In a significant funding update, Esther reports that Smartcat raised USD 43m in a Series C round, bringing their total funding to USD 70m. This funding will support product innovation in AI translation and multilingual content generation.

Florian talks about YouTube’s potential launch of AI dubbing, a feature in testing that aims to generate translated audio tracks for videos, significantly enhancing content accessibility and engagement.

In Esther’s M&A corner, Cloudbreak, now rebranded as Equiti, acquired its competitor Voyce and brought on a new private equity partner, Heritage Group. Meanwhile, EasyTranslate acquired World Translation, expanding its reach in the Nordic and DACH regions.

The duo bid farewell to publicly traded Keywords Studios, which is delisting after being acquired by private equity firm EQT. They also note the shutdown of Viva Translate, a speech-to-speech translation company that will open-source its tools as it winds down.

Highlights from SlatorCon Silicon Valley 2024

Slator- Language Industry Intelligence

On September 5, 2024, more than 150 language industry and technology leaders gathered at Hotel Nia in Menlo Park, Silicon Valley.

The event offered a friendly and relaxed environment, encouraging networking and reconnections among participants. Attendees from over a dozen countries and four continents emphasized the importance of in-person Slator events in addition to virtual ones. The expo hall was also buzzing with activity.

Esther Bond, Head of Advisory at Slator, kicked off the event with a warm welcome, outlining the day's presentations and panels, and encouraging delegates to network and engage with each other.

Key Takeaways from SlatorCon Silicon Valley 2024

Florian Faes, Managing Director of Slator, opened the sessions by presenting key insights from Slator’s latest research on the language industry's current state. He discussed practical applications of large language models (LLMs) in localization workflows and shared predictions for the next few years.

RWS took the stage for the first presentation, with Vasagi Kothandapani and Mark Lawyer discussing the diversification of services into AI solutions. They emphasized the role of content as a driving force for digital transformation, business innovation, enhancing customer experience, corporate growth, global engagement, and market evolution.

Key Takeaways from SlatorCon Silicon Valley 2024

The day's first panel, moderated by Esther Bond, focused on investment strategies.

Andrew Doane of K1 Investment Management and Aditya Govil from VSS Capital Partners explored the influence of AI on the language technology sector, with particular emphasis on the healthcare and B2B SaaS industries. They also discussed the role of private equity in the language tech space and shared insights on strategic considerations for investments and acquisitions.

Helena Batt, who oversees localization operations for the TED Conferences, took the podium next to provide unique insights on the organization’s implementation of AI dubbing for TED Talks. Among the technical challenges encountered, Batt mentioned preserving vocal characteristics and emotional nuance, and achieving seamless lip sync.

Betting on Technology

The Language AI Stack panel, moderated by Anna Wyndham, Slator's Head of Research, featured insights from Georg Ell of Phrase and Hameed Afssari of Uber. They discussed AI as a technology stack, focusing on the practical applications of large language models (LLMs) in localization, including machine translation (MT), workflow optimization, and managing linguistic assets.

A second technology panel, led by Florian Faes, explored the interpreting field. Oddmund Braaten from Interprefy, Fardad Zabetian from KUDO, and Jeremy Woan from CyraCom International shared their perspectives on how automation transforms interpreting services.

Another panel, moderated by Alex Edwards, Slator Senior Research Analyst, offered insights on localization systems integration, global 24/7 services, and enterprise program management. Panelists included Pavel Soukenik from Acolad, Nitin Singhal from SnapLogic, and Agustín Da Fieno Delucchi from Microsoft.

Silvio Picinini from eBay Localization delivered a thought-provoking presentation, exploring two scenarios: applying AI to existing localization processes or reimagining those processes entirely, and the potential outcomes of each approach.

Florian Faes concluded the event with closing remarks, inviting attendees to join SlatorCon Remote in November 2024 or meet in person again at SlatorCon London in 2025. More detailed follow-up coverage is forthcoming.

Language Industry Buyer Tracker July 2024: Key Points Explained

Slator- Language Industry Intelligence

The language industry is constantly evolving, with new developments, acquisitions, and trends emerging regularly. Staying updated is crucial for businesses and professionals in the field. The Language Industry Buyer Tracker for July 2024 provides a comprehensive overview of the latest happenings in the industry. Let's dive into the key points from this month's report.

Slator- Language Industry Intelligence

What is the Language Industry Buyer Tracker?

The Language Industry Buyer Tracker is a monthly report that tracks significant events, trends, and changes within the language services market. It includes details about acquisitions, mergers, financial performances, and technological advancements. This tracker is an essential resource for anyone looking to stay informed about the industry's dynamics.

July 2024 Highlights

This month has seen several notable updates in the language industry. Major acquisitions and mergers have reshaped the market landscape while emerging trends and technological innovations continue to drive growth. Let's explore the most significant events.

Significant Market Trends

Emerging trends in the language industry include the increasing use of AI and machine learning, the growing demand for multilingual content, and the rise of remote interpreting services. These trends are shaping how businesses operate and compete in the global market.

Top Acquisitions in July 2024

One of the major acquisitions this month was Company A acquiring Company B. This move is expected to enhance Company A's service offerings and expand its market reach. The acquisition will likely lead to increased competition and innovation in the industry.

Mergers to Watch

Another significant event was the merger between Company C and Company D. This merger aims to combine their strengths, providing a more comprehensive range of services to clients. The impact of this merger will be closely watched by industry analysts and competitors alike.

Innovations and New Technologies

Technological advancements continue to play a crucial role in the language industry. Recent innovations include AI-powered translation tools, advanced speech recognition systems, and new machine learning algorithms. Companies leading in innovation are setting the pace for the industry's future.

Global Market Impact

The updates in the Language Industry Buyer Tracker have far-reaching effects on the global market. Key regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia are experiencing shifts in demand and supply due to these changes. Understanding these impacts is vital for strategic planning and decision-making.

Key Players in the Industry

Leading companies in the language industry include giants like Company E, Company F, and Company G. These organizations play pivotal roles in shaping industry standards, driving innovation, and influencing market trends.

Financial Performance

The financial health of top companies is a critical aspect of the Language Industry Buyer Tracker. This month, several companies reported strong revenue growth and improved profit margins, reflecting the industry's overall positive outlook.

Challenges Faced by the Industry

Despite the growth and advancements, the language industry faces several challenges. Common obstacles include high operational costs, the need for continuous technological upgrades, and regulatory compliance issues. Companies are adopting various strategies to overcome these challenges and stay competitive.

Future Predictions

Experts predict continued growth in the language industry, driven by technological advancements and increasing globalization. Key areas to watch include AI integration, market consolidation through mergers and acquisitions, and the expanding role of language services in international business.

How to Stay Informed

Staying informed about the latest developments in the language industry is crucial. Resources such as the Language Industry Buyer Tracker, industry blogs, webinars, and professional networks can help professionals keep up-to-date with the latest trends and insights.

Conclusion

The Language Industry Buyer Tracker for July 2024 highlights significant events and trends shaping the market. From major acquisitions and mergers to technological innovations and market shifts, staying updated is essential for success in this dynamic industry. By leveraging resources like the Language Industry Buyer Tracker, professionals can stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions.

 Landexx, a language services provider based in Germany, has filed for bankruptcy.

According to a court filing reported by several German legal aggregation sites, the language services provider Landexx has filed for bankruptcy.

Information on the LSP is now difficult to find, as Landexx's website appears to be down. Additionally, as a private company, Landexx’s annual financial reports are not publicly accessible.

German Language Services Provider Landexx Files for Bankruptcy

Landexx, led by Managing Director Christel Stemmer, provided various services, including translation, interpreting, language training, and desktop publishing.

Language professionals have informed colleagues of the news. For example, German-English translator Jill Sommer advised freelancers in a blog post to contact the bankruptcy trustee, Stephan Höltershinken, about any unpaid invoices. She also warned others not to accept translation assignments from the company.

For at least a few years before the LSP's bankruptcy filing, there had been rumblings about Landexx among freelancers online.

“They were an excellent client, always very professional, EXCEPT that I always had to chase late payments. They often paid 3 to 4 months late,” read a November 2020 complaint by one translator who said she began working with Landexx in 2009.

The freelancer explained that she had to "chase payments by email and phone " and wait a year, even hiring a lawyer, to receive payment for six outstanding invoices.

"[T]hey have told my lawyer that they will no longer be sending me any work, even though I did nothing wrong," she added. "I believe other freelance translators must be in the same position."

Another translator wrote on Reddit in May 2024 that they were pursuing legal action against Landexx through a court order for payment "[a]fter countless reminder e-mails that have been ignored."

Landexx also had a mixed reputation on the job board ProZ, where the LSP’s "Blue Board affiliation" — based on freelancers’ willingness to work with the company again — stood at two out of five stars. A December 2022 staff note indicated that "[t]his outsourcer has been banned from posting jobs at ProZ.com." Details regarding Landexx’s specific case were not disclosed.

“Use of the site dishonestly or fraudulently will result in termination of site use and associated privileges,” states ProZ’s termination policy, which also specifies that ProZ "reserves the right to refuse access to this site to any party without giving a reason."