New technology from Apple could transform language learning and global communication. tech giant says its new AirPods Pro 3 earbuds can translate foreign languages in people's ears in real time. In addition, transcripts of conversations will automatically appear on screens of users' devices. This could have major repercussions for language teaching industry. Instant translation could deter people from investing time and financial outlay required to learn another language. The technology is another example of impact AI could have on jobs. Many teachers will be concerned about how real-time translation might affect their industry and their future.
Apple wrote on its website that its AirPods Pro 3 would help people communicate "seamlessly" in other languages. It added: "For those moments when language barrier gets in way, Live Translation can help users communicate across select languages when messaging or speaking." technology is another example of science fiction becoming science fact. For past century, people have foretold novel ways to translate languages in real time. The 1979 novel "The Hitchhiker's Guide to Galaxy" envisaged fictional "Babel fish" that is put in one's ear to understand foreign tongues. The Japanese manga and anime character Doraemon used special jelly to magically translate any language.
