Modern technology is a double-edged sword. While it’s true that it provides a host of conveniences and benefits, it also brings with it some disadvantages. Translation devices would be a case in point. In the last two years alone, an impressive variety of new translation devices have become available to consumers. Many of these products make it possible to obtain “real-time” translations of several different languages. Enjoying that kind of instantaneous interpretation would definitely fall into the convenience and benefit category – assuming, of course, that the translation is accurate. But the availability of machine translation also means that some people may be less likely to learn a language on their own, or to take the time to understand and fully appreciate the culture of other countries. Still, advantages and disadvantages set aside, there’s no doubt that these devices hold a certain appeal to a huge number of people. Here are just a few of the consumer-friendly translation devices now available around the world:

BUOTH Smart Voice Translator

This language translator supports 70 languages with real-time, two-way translation. It comes equipped with a 2.4-inch touchscreen, where translations of spoken words appears onscreen. It requires Internet access.

TWS Wireless Bluetooth Earbud Headphone

Supporting 19 different languages, this real-time translator fits inside the user’s ear and features a tap function to initiate translations when combined with a Bluetooth headset and a mobile app.

WT2 Language Translator Device

This product supports 36 languages and 84 accents. It features simultaneous two-way translation and claims to cover 85% of the world’s population. Powered by AI (artificial intelligence), the earphone manufacturer touts a 95% accuracy rate and comes equipped with wireless Bluetooth connection and an app, as well as a charging case.

Travis Touch Smart Pocket Translator

This AI-based handheld device features a touchscreen and two-way translations of over 100 languages (meaning it translates what you say and the reply of your partner in conversation). The 2.4-inch touchscreen provides a written translation in addition to the voice interpretation.

Birgus Instant Voice Language Translator Device

This two-way translator comes equipped with a 2.4-inch portable touchscreen and provides simultaneous translation of 70 languages. The company claims that it’s 98% accurate for both individual words and sentences. At the same time, the device will translate your voice from audio into text on the display. Unlike many other products, users don’t need an app on their mobiles to use this device – they just connect it with WiFi, and it’s ready to go.

ODDO Language Translator Device

This AI-based device provides two-way translation of 42 languages. It comes equipped with a 2.4-inch touchscreen and supports WiFi. The company says that due to its artificial intelligence, the speed and recognition rate of the device increases the more it’s used. It provides high-speed two-way translation and does not require a phone or an app to work – users can just connect directly to WiFi. If you’re impressed by the number of devices available, you should know that we have barely scratched the surface with this list. There are countless translation devices available on the market today, many of which claim to provide instantaneous, accurate translations of as many as 100 or more languages. While there’s no doubt that there are many good and useful products out there, it’s important to remember that machine translation – whether it’s via an app or a device – never compares to the quality of translation services provided by a human linguist. And while these devices may provide a certain level of convenience for a traveling tourist, they are not yet capable of providing the kind of quality translations needed for business. A device can’t comprehend the sensitivities of people from different cultures, nor can it understand the subtle nuances of language usage, much less specialize in the professional terminology used in different industries. If you’re intrigued by a translation device for use in casual conversation when you travel, then any one of these or the countless others available will no doubt suffice. But for high quality translation and localization services for your business, only put your trust into a qualified, professional, human linguist.