AI Case Study
Microsoft enables real-time subtitles on Skype video chat software
Microsoft has announced a new feature for its software, Skype. The company has developed a language translation feature to automatically translate people's conversations as they speak. IT claims that the initiative is part of Microsoft’s broader push to leverage the power of artificial intelligence to enable a workplace without barriers. The technology was demonstrated at Re/Code’s Code Conference.
Industry
Technology
Internet Services Consumer
Project Overview
"“This new feature works on the latest version of Skype for one-on-one calls with a friend, coworker, or to any phone number, as well as in group calls with a work team or friend group,” Microsoft said of the new live captioning feature on Skype. “The live captions and subtitles feature provides a more inclusive experience for everyone in the Skype community, especially for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.”
In this release, Microsoft stated that captioning will auto-scroll during your call, but additional viewing options will be arriving with a future update. “Coming soon, you’ll find additional viewing options, including the ability to scroll through them in their own side window, so you don’t miss a moment — be it in a video or in the live subtitles,” Microsoft said. More than 20 languages and dialects will be supported.
Skype subtitles and captioning are part of Microsoft’s broader push to leverage the power of artificial intelligence to enable a workplace without barriers.
Reported Results
"Though the software will be a big benefit for those who rely on assistive technologies every day, captions and subtitles during video calls may also be beneficial to a wider population of Skype users, ranging from foreign language speakers or those who want to verify what was just said on a call in an area of spotty coverage where the audio feed may be cutting in and out."
Technology
No details
Function
R And D
Product Development
Background
"Earlier this year at the company’s Build 2018 conference, Microsoft announced its A.I. for Good to enable developers to create A.I.-powered tools to help those with disabilities."
Benefits
Data