While there are other sign language translators out there, Google Gesture is a concept app that would translate in real time. Not officially produced by Google, the sign language translator was developed by three recent grads from the Berghs School of Communication with the intention of bridging gaps and improving communication between people who use ASL and those who don't.
Ludwig Hallstensson, August Östberg and David Svedenström produced a film explaining how Google Gesture would work, submitting it to Future Lions in Cannes. Two forearm bands analyze the position and muscle activity of the signer while the accompanying app identifies the sign being made and translates it for the non-signing party. The real-time translation app would then, theoretically, allow more interesting conversations to take place.
Signing Translation Apps
Recent Grads Created the Sign Language-Translating Google Gesture Concept
Trend Themes
1. Real-time Translation - Developing real-time translation apps for sign language has the potential to bridge communication gaps between sign language users and non-users.
2. Gesture Recognition - Using forearm bands to analyze the position and muscle activity of signers opens up possibilities for gesture recognition technology.
3. Improving Accessibility - Creating sign language-translating apps improves accessibility for the deaf and hard of hearing community, enabling more inclusive communication.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - The development of sign language-translating apps falls within the technology industry, offering innovation opportunities for software developers and tech companies.
2. Education - The education sector can leverage sign language translating apps to enhance communication and inclusivity within classrooms and educational settings.
3. Communication - The sign language translation concept presents disruptive innovation opportunities for the communication industry, facilitating better understanding and collaboration.