AI translation counters to help tourists - 台北時報 - Translation

• Staff writer

Automatic translation kiosks are being installed at tourist destinations to help lower communication barriers for visitors, the Tourism Administration said on Tuesday.

With 12 million international visitors expected next year, the agency said it is hoping to enhance foreign-language services at airports and scenic areas.

Information counters are currently staffed by people who speak different languages, but the service is limited by working hours, it said in a news release.

Photo courtesy of the Tourism Administration

The agency is therefore installing “smart counters” powered by artificial intelligence (AI), which can provide real-time translations for English, Japanese and Korean speakers, it said.

The kiosks are able to help travelers and staff communicate, while also exhibiting Taiwan’s technological prowess, it said.

The AI used to power the kiosks is comparable to a professional interpreter with three years of experience, the agency said, adding that they also utilize transparent screens and 5G for a seamless face-to-face interaction.

Kiosks have already been set up at information desks at Taipei International Airport (Songshan airport) and the visitors’ center at Yehliu Geopark (野柳地質公園) in New Taipei City, it said.

If it receives positive feedback, the agency said it plans to eventually provide the service at airports nationwide and the 13 scenic areas under its jurisdiction.

Additional languages are to be added in the future depending on database availability, Information Management Office Director Liu Chao-jung (劉昭榮) said.

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