Skype Translate is a translation utility for Skype, which allows instant translation of text chats in numerous languages. For example, if you are having a conversation with a Japanese client who has problem communicating in English, you can use Skype Translate to chat with him in his/her native language. This can be done by simply typing the message in your own language (e.g. English) and it will be automatically translated to the pre-defined language (e.g. Japanese). See below instructions to find out more about the usage of this application.
The first time Skype translate is launched, you will be asked to provide access to the application. It must be noted that you will require launching Skype Translate application manually, each time Skype is launched, in order to acquire text translation.
Skype Translate runs from the system tray and allows configuring two languages for translating live text conversations. To set your own and the recipients language, right-click on the system tray icon and select Settings. You can also pause Skype translate from translating text from this menu.
In the settings dialog box that pops-up, choose the language for yourself and the recipient.
Once done, all your conversations will be automatically translated for the recipient and vice versa. For example, when you type a message in your own language and it will be displayed in both your native and the translated language.
Despite being a great application, I did find some short coming that I hope the developer will work on. Firstly, Skype Translate does not offer support for regional languages and you are likely to find more commonly used national languages. Secondly, there is no option to auto start Skype Translate with system startup (at least none I was able to find). I hope that the developer further enhances Skype Translate with more features and provides support for more languages. For more information about the usage of Skype Translate, check out this video.
Skype Translate works on the following Windows operating systems:
- Windows XP
- Windows Vista
- Windows 7
