Let’s file this under the, “James Bond Tech” file. I highly doubt that a hand held technology will replace translators / interpretors in the near future, but it’s clear that technology is getting better in limited applications. I believe that in specific targeted areas where you need very limited command based language, technology can play an important role, but humans are still the most important part of any communication plan - no matter which language you are talking. More.

Under the Small Business Innovative Research Phase III indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract, the Navy will purchase an unspecified number of Voxtec’s Phraselator P2 hand-held device, which facilitates accurate communication in different languages without a human translator. More than 5,000 units are being used by U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The contract also covers future research, development and refinement of the Phraselator’s phrase-based language technology, the company said.

The Navy will also be able to purchase future low-production prototypes from the Annapolis, Md., company in addition to the commercial devices currently in use.

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