San Jose, CA launches AI initiative to increase language access
San José has launched an AI initiative to improve language access for non-English speakers during city council meetings. The initiative uses the Wordly AI platform to provide real-time translation and captioning in over 50 languages, allowing more residents to participate in local governance. This move underscores San José's commitment to innovation and inclusivity by ensuring effective communication with its diverse population.
San Jose, CA
United States
Chandler, AZ conducts Language Assistance Technology Assessment for more accessible services
Touch-screen translation devices are rotating through 15 public buildings during the six-month pilot. The devices support Braille keyboards and audio translation in 120 languages during conversations with staff. Chandler is also testing a mobile broadcast feature whereby a user can translate a presentation by a single speaker through their smartphone. User and staff surveys evaluate how well these technologies assist the city's diverse population in accessing city events and services.
Chandler, AZ
United States
Swindon Borough Council, GB builds rapid document translation tool with Amazon Translate
The council's Emerging Technologies and Paediatric Therapy Service teams sought a cost-effective method for communicating in 100 languages. Swindon tested machine-learning systems with evaluations conducted by volunteer translators. The Amazon Translate platform was used to create a translation tool with an average processing time of 14 minutes instead of 12 days using agency translators. Borough officials expanded the tool's use to other departments for more accessible public documents.
Swindon Borough Council, GB
United Kingdom
Modesto, CA adopts Wordly for real-time translation during city council meetings
Wordly is AI-powered software integrated into Zoom for live captioning and audio translation. Listeners can select from 25 languages including Spanish, Japanese, and Vietnamese. City officials conducted three months of testing before Wordly was made available for council meetings. The technology enables virtual attendance and provides an audio translation option for in-person attendees. Modesto pursued this project to support broader participation in public meetings.
Modesto, CA
United States
San Diego, CA introduces new features of Get It Done app that improve functionality
The updated app interacts with the user's device to determine if Spanish language translation is preferred. The latest version includes a New Report icon that simplifies incident reporting. Designers streamlined the reporting tool for multiple pictures and precise location based on a device's GPS. Get It Done houses an interactive map of current reports by neighborhood as well as a Submitted By You archive.
San Diego, CA
United States
Espoo, FI improves customer service in multiple languages with digital translation pilot
Espoo partnered with Microsoft and Gofore on a translation app for written and spoken language. The city's Employment Services team provides assistance in Russian, English, and Finnish with the app's help. User feedback from the nine-month pilot will inform efforts at a real-time translation system across all departments. City officials also hope for an expanded language library to accommodate the full range of languages spoken in Espoo.
Espoo, FI
Finland