Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising countless industries, and translation services are no exception. As an expert in new technologies and linguistics, it is essential to understand how AI will shape this field in the medium to long term and what implications it will have for industry professionals.

Advantages of AI in the Translation Sector

1. Speed and efficiency – AI-powered translation tools, such as Google Translate and DeepL, have proven to be incredibly fast and efficient. They can process large volumes of text within seconds, a valuable asset in a world where information flows constantly and businesses need to adapt quickly.
2. Cost reduction – Automating translations can significantly cut operational costs. Companies can save money on high-volume, repetitive translations, allowing human translators to focus on more complex and specialised tasks.
3. Accessibility – AI makes translation services available to anyone with an internet connection. This democratises communication, enabling small businesses and individuals to access translation services without the need for large budgets.

Challenges for Translation Professionals

1. Quality and nuances – While AI has advanced significantly, it is still in its early stages. Only human translators can fully grasp cultural and contextual nuances. Machine translations can be overly literal, often losing the underlying meaning—something crucial in fields such as literature, marketing, and legal documents. Moreover, AI-generated translations are not always reliable and can lead to serious consequences in areas like medical translation.
2. Job displacement – Automation will inevitably reduce job opportunities in the translation sector. Translators who primarily handle repetitive, low-complexity tasks may struggle to find work. However, training in AI technologies is essential to avoid this scenario. As some jobs disappear, new roles will emerge, making it crucial for professionals to stay ahead of the curve.
3. Confidentiality and security – Online translation tools pose a significant risk to data security and confidentiality. Businesses and professionals handling sensitive information must exercise caution and implement secure solutions to protect their data. Additionally, increasing regulations surrounding AI usage are expected in the coming years.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the synergy between AI and human translators has the potential to create a future where translation services are more accurate, efficient, and accessible than ever before. The key lies in adaptation—embracing AI as a tool rather than a threat and evolving alongside technological advancements to remain relevant in this rapidly changing landscape.

Óscar Fernández García.

Valladolid, 28th May 2024.