Check If You Have Access to Google’s New “advanced” Translations, Powered by Gemini.
It appears Google Translate is starting to offer more accurate translations, as first reported by 9to5Google . While Lifehacker couldn’t independently confirm this, the publication reports that some iOS devices now have the option to select the “Advanced” translation model in the Google Translate app.
The new model appears as an option in the model selection window at the top of the page, similar to the Gemini app, and is advertised as “High accuracy for complex translations.” Engadget also managed to get the model selection window to appear, where the Advanced model states that it “specializes in accuracy using Gemini.”
Those who wish to use the older translation tools can continue to use the “Quick” model instead.
Along with the August launch of an AI-powered learning tool to compete with Duolingo , the new model further strengthens Google Translate’s position as an AI-powered app. The idea is that the inclusion of LLM will enable the translation of longer and more context-sensitive texts.
Advanced translations, limited language support
Currently, the extended translation model has a number of limitations. First, it only supports text translation, so there’s no need to hand the phone to a native speaker and record their speech. Second, it only supports “certain languages.”
While 9to5Google doesn’t specify which languages the Advanced Model works with, Engadget’s report states that it currently only works between English and French or English and Spanish. The publication also tested a passage from a French play using the new model and noted that while the Fast Model produced a more literal translation, the Advanced Model was more accurate in capturing the nuances of the text and better captured idioms missed by older tools.
While the enhanced model represents a more explicit addition to AI, it’s not the first time AI has been used in the Google Translate app. In August, Google announced that it had already begun using “Gemini models in Translate,” and the company has been experimenting with their implementation since 2016 , claiming that AI-assisted translation “reduced translation errors by an average of 60%.” Nevertheless, this represents a broader choice for those who have access to it and a firmer commitment to implementing new AI tools in the app.
The update is still rolling out.
Unfortunately, it looks like the full rollout will take some time, as I don’t see it on any of my devices right now. I’ve contacted Google to find out when the expanded version is likely to be available to all users.