[JacobAldridge]

"The release of Microsoft’s Skype Translator, which translates multilingual conversations in real time, is an early success."

Is it just me who has seen loads on the updates to Google Translate but never heard about this?

If not, then that suggests that shifting media perception about Microsoft will be critical, and isn't there yet (this piece will help). Only when the media (bloggers and mainstream) filter Microsoft announcements through a context of 'they do innovative exciting things' will product and feature releases garner the publicity Microsoft needs to change the broader public perception.

[staunch]

Real artists ship. Microsoft obviously has plenty of good ideas but their execution is always lacking. I see nothing different about what Nadella is doing. If anything he seems more inclined towards flashy bs and talk over shipping.

Microsoft:

> "You could be one of the first to experience Skype Translator. All you need to do is sign up to be a preview user and we will keep you posted on what comes next."

http://www.skype.com/en/translator-preview/

Google:

> "What's New in Version 3.1.0 • Word Lens: Just point your camera to a sign or text and the Translate app will instantly translate the text, even without Internet/data connection. • Automatic language detection in speech/conversation mode - start translating with speech input and Translate will recognize which of the two languages is being spoken, allowing you to have a more fluid conversation with another person."

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/google-translate/id414706506...

[JacobAldridge]

Agree entirely! The article led me to believe Skype Translator had shipped, which is why I focused there and not on the obviously experimental HoloGoggles.

No bonus points for "one day" - keeping over promising and under delivering and nothing will change.

[stevecalifornia]

This has been in Windows Phone 8 since it came out.

[afsina]

Voice to Voice translation for multiple languages? Citation needed.

[stevecalifornia]

It also does voice to voice. I speak into my phone, it types it out, translates it to whatever language then speaks it in that language. It's a travelling app that they don't seem to advertise. It also does the augmented reality translation someone else posted about.

[ttrashh]

He is saying that real time text translation has been there. Microsoft has the translator app that will display the translated text as an "augmented" overlay when you hold the camera up.