VoiceTra is an invaluable speech translation application designed to facilitate communication across different languages, particularly useful for travelers and those welcoming visitors to Japan. This free-to-download app supports an impressive 31 languages, making it a versatile tool for global communication.

Key Features:

VoiceTra leverages advanced technologies from the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), including high-precision speech recognition, translation, and speech synthesis. This allows the app to convert your spoken words into various languages and deliver the translations via synthesized voice. The app's ability to instantly switch translation directions enables two people speaking different languages to communicate effectively using just one device. For languages without speech input support, text input is available, ensuring broad usability.

VoiceTra is particularly tailored for travel-related conversations, making it ideal for various scenarios such as:

• Transportation: Navigating buses, trains, rental cars, taxis, airports, and transit systems.
• Shopping: Dining at restaurants, shopping, and handling payments.
• Hotel: Managing check-ins, check-outs, and cancellations.
• Sightseeing: Assisting with overseas travel and supporting foreign customers.

Additionally, VoiceTra has been recognized for its utility in disaster prevention and response.

While the app can serve as a dictionary for word lookups, it is most effective when used to translate sentences, as it interprets the context to provide accurate translations.

Supported Languages:

VoiceTra supports a wide range of languages including Japanese, English, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Korean, Thai, French, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Spanish, Myanmar, Arabic, Italian, Ukrainian, Urdu, Dutch, Khmer, Sinhala, Danish, German, Turkish, Nepali, Hungarian, Hindi, Filipino, Polish, Portuguese, Brazilian Portuguese, Malay, Mongolian, Lao, and Russian.

Restrictions and Considerations:

• An internet connection is necessary for the app to function.
• Translation results may be delayed based on network conditions.
• Text input is limited to languages supported by the OS keyboard.
• Proper font installation is required for correct character display.
• The app may be unavailable if the server is down.
• Users are responsible for any communication fees, including potentially high international data roaming charges.
• Developed for research purposes, the app uses servers set up for research, and data collected is used to enhance speech translation technologies.
• While businesses can test the app, continuous use should be directed towards private services licensed by NICT.

For more detailed information, please review the "Terms of Use" at voicetra.nict.go.jp/en/attention.html.

What's New in Version 9.0.4:

• Updated to support Android 14 as of August 20, 2024.

VoiceTra stands out as a comprehensive and user-friendly tool for anyone needing reliable speech translation, enhancing both travel experiences and cross-cultural communication.