Google Translate has expanded its services to include Khasi, one of the primary languages of Meghalaya, as part of a major update that introduces 109 new languages. This move is set to bridge communication gaps and benefit millions of people worldwide.
The addition of Khasi is expected to significantly enhance the experience of tourists visiting Meghalaya. Visitors will now find it easier to navigate local areas, communicate with residents, and understand cultural nuances. This update has the potential to increase tourism in the region by making it more accessible and welcoming to international travellers.
Google’s latest update includes a wide range of languages, from those spoken by over 100 million people to those used by small Indigenous communities. Powered by artificial intelligence, this expansion will provide translations for an additional 614 million speakers globally, covering about 8 per cent of the world’s population.
Among the newly added languages are Cantonese and several African languages, demonstrating Google’s commitment to linguistic diversity. The company emphasised that some of these languages have few native speakers but are part of active revitalisation efforts.
This update not only makes communication easier for travellers but also plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting lesser-known languages. For Meghalaya and other regions with newly added languages, this development could lead to improved cultural exchange and economic opportunities through enhanced tourism accessibility.