Microsoft’s Translator app received a rather significant update today that added support for not only Windows Ink but also Cortana.
The Cortana integration allows for the Translator app to translate conversations happening in real-time while the Windows Ink functionality now allows users to draw or write words with their mouse, stylus, or even their finger.
Here’s the official release notes.
Cortana integration – Ask Cortana to start or join a conversation
Supported languages: Chinese Simplified, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese
Example commands:
“Hey Cortana, start a conversation in Translator”
“Hey Cortana, ask Translator to start a conversation” **
“Hey Cortana, ask Translator to join conversation {CONVERSATION CODE}” **
(** Only commands that Chinese Simplified supports)
Windows Ink – Text translation by writing with your mouse or stylus
Neural network-powered offline language packs – Download offline language packs to use even when you don’t have an internet connection
Phrasebook & dictionary – 200+ essential phrases and words. Save commonly used phrases to your Favorites list
Live feature: Start or join a live, translated conversation across multiple languages. Test this using Cortana and let us know how it works!
It’s worth noting that the official app page in the Microsoft Store does mention that this update is not coming to mobile and that the real-time conversation translation function is “not available for Windows Phone.” This isn’t too surprising as support for the Windows phone platform is winding down and development on the rumored Microsoft smartphone successor is apparently gearing up (if the reports are to be believed).
Have you tried these new Translator features yet? Are you disappointed that Windows phone users are missing out? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments below and make sure to follow us on Twitter for more Windows app news.
