This new Google Lens feature looks like it’s straight out of a sci-fi movie

By Cristina Alexander September 28, 2022

Google has introduced AR Translate as part of a trio of updates for Google Lens that are aimed at taking image translation further into the future. The company held a demonstration at the Google Search On 2022 conference on Wednesday to show that AR Translate can use AI to make images featuring a foreign language look more natural after text is translated to another language.

Currently, any text that’s converted into a different language uses colored blocks to mask bits of the background image. AR Translate better preserves the image by removing the blocks and just swapping the text outright to make the translated image look as though it was the original photo.

Recommended Videos

What you love about Translating with Lens is now even better. 💡

With major advancements in AI, translated text appears seamlessly integrated, as if it was part of the original picture. Turning text… into context! #SearchOn pic.twitter.com/N8YySv87z1

— Google (@Google) September 28, 2022

Google said it optimized the machine learning models so that AR Translate could work in 100 milliseconds. The translation speed is made possible with the same technology Google uses for Magic Eraser, whether you’re trying to translate a screenshot or a poster with the live Lens Camera.

AR Translate is an impressive innovation that looks as though it’s taken straight out of a sci-fi film. People will not only be able to translate the posters they would see at a museum, zoo, or other tourist attraction when they travel to different countries, but one day they will also be able to translate street signs and storefront signs faster than the blink of an eye. Although, we’re not sure if the live Lens Camera will be able to translate signs in which the text is raised, like on building signs. Even so, it’s impressive to see Google continuing to improve one of its most impressive (and helpful) features.

AR Translate will roll out on the Google app later this year.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Cristina Alexander

Gaming/Mobile Writer

Cristina Alexander has been writing since 2014, from opining about pop culture on her personal blog in college to reporting…

Mobile

Apple’s new iPad Air could be in trouble

If everything goes according to plan, Apple is set to unveil new iPads on Tuesday, May 7. It's been a while since the last iPad release in October 2022, so expectations are incredibly high for those eagerly waiting to buy a new Apple tablet.

I typically purchase the iPad Pro and own the current 11-inch model, and I am curious about Apple's plans for this product line. However, most people are probably more interested in the upcoming iPad Air lineup in 2024. Both lineups are getting a refresh next week. In recent years, the iPad Air has been positioned between the budget-priced iPad and the top-of-the-line iPad Pro, making it a popular choice for many.

Mobile

Best Fitbit deals: Save on Versa 4, Charge 6, and Sense 2

One of the best fitness trackers is a great way to up your workout, though they can get expensive. Even with the current Apple deals, Apple Watch deals, and Samsung Galaxy Watch deals things can get a little expensive. Fitbit is a good fitness tracker brand to turn to if you’re looking for affordability. It has a great lineup of options, and Fitbit watches are almost always seeing a deal. In fact, right now Fitbit deals make for some of the best smartwatch deals you can shop. Below you’ll find what we feel are the best Fitbit deals to shop right now. There are several models to choose from for some savings, as well as a great deal on the Fitbit Charge 4.
Today's best Fitbit deal
Fitbit Charge 4 -- $125, was $150

While there are newer Fitbit Charge models on the market that include both the Fitbit Charge 5 and the Fitbit Charge 6, the Fitbit Charge 4 still has a lot to offer. It has all sorts of fitness and activity tracking capabilities. It can measure your resting heart rate and calorie burn throughout the day, as well as your SpO2 nightly average. The Charge 4 also uses built-in GPS to see your pace and distance during outdoor runs, rides, hikes, and other activities. You can head out for a long hike with this smartwatch, as the Charge 5 can last up to seven days on a single battery charge, and up to five hours when GPS is being used.

Mobile

Best Samsung deals: The Galaxy S24 Ultra is up to $750 off

Whether you’re looking to shop TV deals, phone deals, smartwatch deals, and even tablet deals, Samsung almost always has something we could direct your attention toward. It’s regularly regarded as one of the top electronics brands, and almost always places among the best TV brands. There are a lot of Samsung deals worth shopping right now, and they cross the full spectrum of tech. We’ve done some of the heavy lifting for you and have rounded up what we feel are the best Samsung deals to shop right now. You’ll find a little bit of everything with these deals, so read onward for more details.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 — $150, was $200

On the surface, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 may look like a watch with a cool digital screen. And, of course, that'd be quite nice. But it turns out to be more of a wearable health monitor, giving you access to info on your overall fitness, running capabilities, and sleep cycles. Our Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 review compliments it for its seamless pairing with Samsung devices and its compatibility with small wrists. As you're sure to be adventuring, running, and exploring with this watch, be sure to grab one of the best Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 screen protectors to preserve its longevity.