How to Leverage Your Smartwatch for Language Learning with Voice Recognition and Real Time Translation Features
How to Learn Languages with Speech Recognition Tools
How to Learn Languages with Speech Recognition Tools
Ive got all the right books and tons of vocabulary flashcards but I cant find anyone to actually speak with!
Luckily, technology provides a solution.
Thanks to increasingly advanced speech recognition, there are apps that can give you instant feedback on your speaking and pronunciation skills.
Lets dive into how exactly speech recognition can help with language learning, along with the seven best apps for this!
Contents
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Why Use Speech Recognition for Language Learning?
Improve Pronunciation
First of all, using speech recognition can help you fine-tune your pronunciation. One of the trickiest aspects of learning to speak a language is getting your pronunciation right, especially if youre mostly learning on your own. Even native speakers can sometimes have a hard time pinpointing which part of your pronunciation needs correcting.
With speech recognition, you can practice speaking using your phone and know right away what you need to improve. Some apps even check your intonation and break down which syllables you pronounced wrong.
Less Intimidating
Additionally, speech recognition isnt intimidating. One thing that holds back many learners from practicing their speaking skills more is being afraid to make mistakes with native speakers.
Since you arent working with an actual person, you wont be embarrassed if you make a mistake with speech recognition. Practicing with an app can make you more confident in your skills and eventually take away some of the intimidation factor of talking with actual native speakers.
Personalized Learning
Speech recognition gives you specific feedback about your accent and speaking skills. As technology gets more advanced, many apps with speech recognition can give very detailed reports about your language skills and plan your next lessons based on these.
You can even practice two-way dialogues now, with some AI apps coming up with their own responses and setting up different scenarios.
Flexible Studying
Finally, speech recognition apps provide aflexible study option. You can get speaking practice whenever you want, without needing to schedule time with a conversation partner.
That means you can cram in a little extra speech practice whether youre waiting in line at the store, relaxing in bed or even in the shower (just make sure your phone is waterproof first).
Speech Recognition Apps for Language Learning
Need some conversation practice? Mondly might be the supportive, non-judgmental conversation partner youre looking for.
Mondlys main focus is on helping you learn common words and phrases that you can use in real-world situations youre likely to encounter.
After helping you remember key words and start putting together phrases, Mondly will put your speaking skills to the test with a simulated conversation. Youll hear a prompt spoken by a native speaker. The words and their translations will also appear on the screen. From there, youll have a list of options for replies you can actually say into your device.
Mondlys speech recognition aims to improve your pronunciation by listening to your words and phrases and giving you feedback for correct, clear speaking.
Mondly offers more than 40 languages, including common options like Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. However, Mondly also offers less common options, like Afrikaans, Bulgarian, Croatian, Hungarian, Indonesian, Persian and more.
Click here for an in-depth review on Mondly.
Immersive learning (surrounding yourself with the real spoken and written language) is the key to FluentUs language learning program. In fact, it is best used for at-home immersion to round out the speaking skills.
FluentU uses authentic video clips to bring the language youre learning right to your computer or phone screen. Each video comes with interactive captionsclick any word for an instant definition, native pronunciation and visual learning aid. This allows you to learn vocabulary in context, so you can be better prepared to understand and participate in native-level speech.
Since all the videos are organized by genre and learning level, you can easily find the content that suits your needs. You can then test your knowledge of the material with personalized quizzes. These quizzes can be completed through written input as well as speech recognition input, so you can master your accent in tandem with building your vocabulary.
Babbel aims to teach you a language in 10- to 15-minute daily lessons. It covers popular topics, like business, travel, shopping, dining and transportation, to ensure that the skills you learn are likely to be usable in the real world.
Babbels speech recognition feature appears during vocabulary review. Youll see the written word and its English meaning and you can also play an audio pronunciation. From there, you have the option of speaking the word yourself. Your goal is to emulate the pronunciation you heard.
If your pronunciation is good, youll get a new word. If not, you have four more chances before the app moves on regardless of your pronunciation.
Babbel offers 14 languages, including Spanish, French, German, Russian, Italian and English.
You can find out more about Babbel with this detailed review.
While AudioNote isnt designed for language learners, it could be your secret weapon for perfecting your pronunciation.
AudioNotes main focus is (you guessed it) taking audio notes. This means that you speak into your device while the app jots down what you said.
For language learners, this provides aquick way to see if your pronunciation is clear enough for the app to understand what youre saying. If the transcription isnt accurate, you may not be speaking clearly enough.
One of the features thats perhaps most useful for language learners is the linking ofaudio and text. You can play back the audio you spoke as the app highlights the transcription to show where youre at. This makes it easy to pinpoint which (if any) words you mispronounced. You can also tap your notes if you want to hear specific words you said.
AudioNote is available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
Got an extra 10 minutes today? Busuu can help fill it with language learning goodness.
Not only will Busuu provide you with grammar lessons, vocabulary practice and conversations with native speakers, but it can also help you improve your accent with speech recognition exercises.
In these exercises, you hear a native speaker and repeat after him/her. Then, the app will tell you if you pronounced the prompts correctly.
Levels range from beginner to fluent.Busuu offers 14 languages, including Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and Turkish.
For more on Busuu, check out this review.
Sure, Rocket Languages offers plenty of interactive materials to help you learn a language. Sure, its designed to be flexible so you can learn at your pace in whatever time you have available. But lets get to the juicy stuff: the speech recognition activities.
Rocket Languages offers speech recognition for thousands of phrases. Youll be presented with a written word or phrase and its English translation. For languages that dont use the Latin alphabet, therell also be a transliteration listed to make things a little easier for you.
Then, you can speak that word or phrase and the app will give you feedback on your pronunciation.
Rocket Languages offers 14 foreign languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, German, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Arabic and Japanese.
Click here for a full review of Rocket Languages.
If youre into language apps and/or software, chances are youve heard of Rosetta Stone. Probably a lot. But dont stop reading just yet!
Rosetta Stone has a lot to offer for language learners, so it should come as no surprise that their app offers some top-notch speech recognition. In fact, their speech recognition comes complete with its own registered trademark name: TruAccent.
It aims to help you perfect your accent by practicing common words and phrases and reading short stories aloud.
This technology not only checks to make sure the words and phrases you used are correct, but it also compares your speech to that of a native speaker to provide you with an instant assessment of which words you pronounced well and which could use some more work.
You can even compare the wavelengths of your audio to that of the native speaker, for super-precise adjustments. Plus, Rosetta Stone will track your progress and let yousee how your pronunciation has improved over time.
Rosetta Stone offers over 20 languages, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Arabic, Spanish, Italian, French and German.
Heres an in-depth review of Rosetta Stone.
So speak up with these seven apps with speech recognition!
Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)
Voice Recognition for language learning
Voice recognition for language learning
Speech recognition for pronunciation improvement
This type of automatic speech recognition software helps learners to improve their pronunciation in a systematic manner, and it does so objectively.
By themselves, learners cannot correct their pronunciation. However, with the assistance of a speech recognition system, they can practice on their own without relying on a tutor to correct them. Whats more, the precise feedback from Dexways voice recognition software allows students to know exactly where there is room for improvement. This way, they can focus on the areas that need more practice.
This dynamic speech recognition tool is included in Dexway language courses, which also include:
Time2Translate smartwatch brings real-time translation to the wrist
Real-time translation wearables have landed with the likes of the Bragi Dash Pro, Google's Pixel Buds and now Waverly Labs' Pilot now shipping to backers.
Australian startup Lingmo also joined the party last year when it launched its smart earpiece powered by IBM Watson. Apparently, not everyone was a fan of translating from the ear, so the startup decided to launch a smartwatch with translation powers, as well.
Read this: The current state of real-time translation hearables
The Time2Translate smartwatch runs on Android (not Android Wear) with a 1.39-inch AMOLED touchscreen display, a 2-megpixel camera, 4GB of storage, 512MB of RAM and a 350mAh battery serving up 4-5 hours of translation time or 13-15 hours in standby mode. A speaker and microphone is on board to do the translating, and it also offers Nano SIM support to give users that standalone smartwatch experience. Dual band frequency means you can use it anywhere in the world, too.
Translation is once again powered by IBM Watson and Lingmo's own hardware covering English, Japanese, French, Italian, Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, German and Chinese. Lingmo claims it can translate these nine languages with an 85% accuracy.
In addition of real-time translation, Lingmo is introducing a new piece of software called Talk2U that promises to translate voice messages in real-time in nine different languages. There's also support for up to 1,000 users to talk in a group chat across those same nine languages.
The Time2Translate is available in two models. The first is a Lifestyle model, which comes with a black frame and black silicon strap and costs $699. If you want the more luxury option, the Executive features a black stainless steel frame and a leather wrist band and is priced at $899.
If you like the idea of the Time2Translate, it's available to order now from the Lingmo website and will start shipping in April 2018.
Source: Business Insider
By Michael Sawh
Michael Sawh has been covering the wearable tech industry since the very first Fitbit landed back in 2011.Previously the resident wearable tech expert at Trusted Reviews, he also marshaled the features section of T3.com.
He also regularly contributed to T3 magazine when they needed someone to talk about fitness trackers, running watches, headphones, tablets, and phones.
Michael writes for GQ, Wired, Coach Mag, Metro, MSN, BBC Focus, Stuff, TechRadar and has made several appearances on the BBC Travel Show to talk all things tech.
Michael is a lover of all things sports and fitness-tech related, clocking up over 15 marathons and has put in serious hours in the pool all in the name of testing every fitness wearable going. Expect to see him with a minimum of two wearables at any given time.
6 Best Language Translator Smartwatches in 2024
When traveling to foreign countries, language becomes a major issue. Without understanding the local language of that country, you cant converse with anyone. Without communication, you obviously cant do anything much. In such cases, we all need to hire a human interpreter to help us. Thats been a practice for hundreds of years right? However, in this technological advanced world, we dont always need human translator anymore because we now have electronic gadgets to help us instead. If you are always with us, you probably remember that we have already introduce you to the Language Translator Devices and Translator Earbuds which can help you converse instantly in more than 100 languages. And today, we bring more gadget to you which is the Language Translator Smartwatch.
A language translator smartwatch has emerged after the two devices above but its more convenient to have it on your wrist all the time. These translator smartwatch also provides you real-time translation instantly in multiple languages. You just need to speak in your language and it will translate it in the target language in just no time. In the market, different types of and different models of translator smartwatches are available. Because of that, choosing the best one can be a bit difficult for you. Thats why we are trying to reduce your burden here, by compiling the list of top language translator smartwatches for you. Here you go!
List of the 6 Best Language Translator Smartwatches in 2024
6. Lingmo Time2tranlate lifestyle smartwatch translator, IBM AI Technology 2-Way A.I Voice & Text Language Translation, 29 Langauges
Buy on Amazon.com
Lets start off the list with this remarkable language translator smartwatch by Lingmo International that has already garnered huge attention for its remarkable features. Powered by IBM Watson Artificial Intelligence (AI), this smartwatch can help you translate in 27 languages in real-time. The smartwatch is operated via a SIM card that you need to insert into it for online functioning. Once the sim is ready, just wear the watch and youre all set to go.
Speaking of the features, this smartwatch translator is designed with the advanced technology to recognize human voice and translating it into the target language instantly. The awesome thing about this smartwatch is that it automatically detects the slangs, nuances, and dialects of the language and ensure up to 98% accuracy. It doesnt only help you translate the language but also make phone calls, download apps, mail or message someone, listen to music, track GPS, monitor heart rate, and operate many other such advanced functions. Its not easy to lose like other devices as you wear it on your wrist tightly.
Key features
- Real-time translation in 27 languages
- Multi-functional
- 48 hours battery standby
- Built-in 4GBmemory
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatible
Watch video to see how the smartwatch translate the languages for you
5. Time2Translate Executive Smartwatch translator, 27-Language Real-Time Translation
Buy on Amazon.com
If youre looking for an advanced language translator smartwatch with an elegant look, Time2Translate Executive smartwatch translator is made for you. Inbuilt with 2-way translation compatibility, the smartwatch offers real-time translation in 27 different languages. The accuracy of the translation is over 85%. In some languages, it ensures accuracy even up to 98%. Moving on to its advanced features, it is designed with an intelligent voice recognition technology that enables the watch to recognize the nuances, dialects, and slangs and offer you accurate translation.
Made of stainless steel, the translation smartwatch is inbuilt with an 8 GB memory card. Featuring a powerful battery, it provides a long standby runtime of 72 hours and active use of 16 hours without the need of power bank. Adding further, the display resolution is 400400 pixels. The smart feature of this smartwatch translator is the free voice-message translation technology that enhances the functionality of the watch and makes it versatile.
Key features
- Steel construction
- 8GB inbuilt memory card
- 72 hours of battery standby time
- Supports 27 global languages
- 400400 pixel display resolution
Related:Best AI Writer Softwares To Change Content Creation Industry in 2024
4. WMWHALE smart translation watch, Support 137 Languages, Smartwatch Translator for Learning languages, Traveling, Shopping & Business
Buy on Amazon.com
WMWHALE smart translation watch is made for you if you want a budget-friendly translator smartwatch with the capability of translating over 100 languages. Unlike its competitors, it is low in budget yet supports more than 137 global languages. To your surprise, the watch is designed with a 720 high-definition camera that supports 5p all-glass lens. The best thing about this smartwatch is that it is made of steel. Given that, you dont need to worry about sweating or raining. It cant be affected by these factors.
Speaking of its functionality, the smartwatch translator doesnt only translate the voice but also photos and texts. Furthermore, the smartwatch also supports the android smart app and offers you accurate GPRS positioning. The unique feature of this wearing watch is that it is inbuilt with some reminders like it will remind you to drink water and pay attention to your health.
Key features
- Supports over 137 languages
- Features 720 high-definition camera
- Inbuilt with smart sedentary remainders
- Waterproof
- Easy-to-use interface
3. GGPUS translator Smartwatch, Mini AI Translator Device with Intelligent Translation Machine & Bluetooth WiFi Translation Watch
Buy on Amazon.com
GGPUS translator watch is an advanced smartwatch that will offer you the translation in more than 137 languages. The interesting thing is that it doesnt only support voice translation but also the camera, pictures, text, and dialogue translation. Inbuilt with a powerful polymer battery of 600mAh, the smartwatch has a long run time. Furthermore, the watch is Bluetooth-enabled and offers you full flexibility to pick up/ reject a call, listen to music, and perform many other such functions.
Also check:Top 10 Best Language Translator Apps for Your Smartphones in 2024
Not to forget, it is also Wi-Fi compatible. Furthermore, it features a 720 HD camera that is inbuilt with automatic filtering stray light. Above all, it is waterproof, sweat-proof, and dust-proof. Given the fact, you can wear this smartwatch even in rain without any worries of getting it damaged. All thanks to its steel construction material that makes it weather-resistant. Having this language translator smartwatch on your wrist will give you enormous benefit beyond timing.
Key features
- Steel construction
- Supports over 137 languages
- Wi-Fi enabled
- Multi-functional
- Features 720 HD camera
2. for LEMFO LEM T- android 7.1 4G screen smartwatch by Yuege, Language translator smartwatch
Buy on Amazon.com
Yuege screen smartwatch is probably the most advanced smartwatch on this list. Unlike others, it is designed with 4G compatibility, which enables the watch to provide faster data transmission and many other smart features.
The smartwatch translator supports numerous languages including English, Chinese, Spanish, German, and many more. Adding further to its features, it is inbuilt with 3GB RAM, 32GB ROM, and a powerful battery of 2700 mAh. Not only this, but the smartwatch is equipped with a stylish LCD screen of 2.86 inches. The display resolution is 480640. Furthermore, it also features a 5.0 MP camera that provides you a mind-blowing picture-clicking experience.
Moving to the advanced features of the smartwatch, it is designed with the functionality of pedometer, heart rate measurement, music, message, alarm, weather, map, app store, sound recorder, calendar, and voice search. Given the fact, it can meet all your daily entertainment needs.
Key features
- 2700mAh polymer battery
- Features 5.0 MP camera
- Waterproof
- 2.86 LCD display
- 4G compatible network
1. DJG smartwatch translator, color 2.03 inch | Wearable language translator smartwatch
Buy on Amazon.com
DJG translator smartwatch is an advanced and innovative watch that is compatible with 4G and Wi-Fi. Given the fact, it translates the languages instantly and ensures faster results. Unlike its competitors, it is equipped with a round big screen, which makes it easier and convenient for you to operate the device.
The size of the screen is 2.03 inches and it is also equipped with an 8MP camera. Furthermore, it is inbuilt with a powerful lithium battery of 900mAh that can last for hours without any problem. Coming to its advanced features, the smartwatch translator is designed with GPS function, heart rate sensors, music compatibility, and multiple sports modes.
The device supports a nano sim card and allows you to make a call with the watch itself. The translating function of the watch is super easy. You just speak in your language and it will instantly translate it into the target language.
Key features
- 900mAh battery
- 2.03 inches large display
- Features 8MP camera
- 4G network compatible
- Equipped with heart rate sensors
Key factors to consider while buying your language translator smartwatch
Youre buying a very crucial device. This is why be careful with your purchase. Make sure to consider the below-mentioned factors and buy the one that is the most ideal for you.
Size of display
You would be wearing your translator smartwatch in your wrist. Given the fact, the display of the smartwatch must be this much large that it doesnt look oversized in your wrist. Ideally, the LCD watch display of 2-3 inches looks good on the hands of adults. Nevertheless, it is a personal choice and you can go for any size of translator smartwatch.
Numbers of many languages
This is the most significant factor that you need to consider while buying your language translator smartwatch. Investigate carefully how many languages your prospective smartwatch can translate. Also, make sure to check that it offers the language that you need because translator smartwatches dont offer all languages. This is why be sure your prospective smartwatch offers your required language. In general, good-quality language smartwatches offer real-time translations of more than 100 languages.
Advanced features
Once the languages of the smartwatch are checked, move on and inquire into the advanced features of the device. Generally, all top-notch translator smartwatches are inbuilt with high-tech features such as music compatibility, high-quality camera, GPS function, heart rate sensors, the flexibility to make calls and many more. These features boost the overall functionality of the smartwatch. So, make sure to buy the one that is equipped with all of them.
Battery runtime
Yet another significant feature that must be brought into notice while buying a language translation smartwatch. Usually, all language translation smartwatches are battery-powered. Here, the thing you have to check is the type and the capacity of the battery. Generally, the language smartwatches equipped with 2500-2700mAh polymer battery are considered the best, as they provide long run-time.
Ease of use
At last, make sure your smartwatch translator has an easy-to-use interface so that you can operate it without any problem. Also, ensure that it is waterproof, dustproof, and sweat-proof.
Conclusion
Youre going abroad whether for business meets or social events, conversing in the local language is not a problem. You can do it easily with the help of a language translator smartwatch. Besides translating the language, you can also enjoy many other features in a translator smartwatch. So, buy the one and explore the world beyond language boundaries.
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API