Optus launches Call Translate trial: turning two languages into one conversation

The latest innovation in Optus’ Living Network strategy

Optus has launched its latest innovation, Call Translate, which translates calls between different language speakers in real time via a standard voice call across the Optus Living Network. Optus Call Translate helps break down language barriers and empowers customers to connect, even when they don’t speak the same language.

Last month, Optus Mobile customers were provided with the opportunity to submit expressions of interest to trial the innovation and today is the day they gain access. Built on the Optus Living Network using Google Cloud technology, customers can pick what language they want to translate ‘from’ and ‘to’ from a selection within the My Optus App and then make their calls in real time just like normal.

Connecting people across Australia and the world, the Optus Call Translate trial launches initially with support for ten languages – Arabic, English, Filipino, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish and Vietnamese, with more languages coming soon.

Clive Dickens, Optus Vice President of TV, Content & Product Development said “Call Translate epitomises how the Optus Living Network connects customers with technology that improves their lives.”

“As part of our ongoing commitment to become Australia’s most loved everyday brand with lasting customer relationships and to provide innovative options that customers love, we are making life simpler for customers with Call Translate, the next feature unveiled in our Optus Living Network."

“At Optus, connecting people is at the heart of what we do and Call Translate makes conversing possible for some of the many Australians who don't speak English as their first language”.

“So, whether you’re an Australian resident, an international student or a small business owner who needs help interacting in another language, whether it's making an appointment with the dentist, booking a restaurant or arranging a sale, Optus Call Translate helps you communicate with confidence.” 

Antony Passemard, Head of Product for Conversational AI, Google Cloud, added, “The goal of Conversational AI technologies is to create hyper-personal engagement between people, so we’re thrilled to support Optus who are leveraging our advanced machine learning models in speech and natural language processing to bring people closer together.”

Optus Call Translate is built, owned and operated by Optus using Google Cloud translation technology to power the translation element within the Optus application.

For customers wanting to find out more info on Call Translate please see here: http://www.optus.com.au/calltranslate

 
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