Google Arts & Culture created an open-source photo-translation tool called Woolaroo to share indigenous languages that are in danger of disappearing. Technology has the potential to provide an interactive and educational way to preserve languages and Yugambeh is the first Australian Aboriginal language to be featured on Woolaroo.
The tool leverages Google Cloud’s machine learning and image recognition technology, so that real-world objects can be identified in an endangered language. Pointing a phone's camera at an object reveals the name of something, as well as its pronunciation, and with interactivity and context, this makes it easier to remember new words.
It's estimated that one language ceases to exist every 14 days and the world is at risk of losing half of its 7,000 languages by the next century—but Woolaroo can help.
Indigenous Language Apps
Woolaroo by Google Arts & Culture Shares Endangered Languages
Trend Themes
1. Endangered Language Preservation - Woolaroo's photo-translation tool provides an interactive and educational way to preserve and share indigenous languages that are at risk of disappearing.
2. Machine Learning for Language Learning - Leveraging Google Cloud's machine learning and image recognition technology, Woolaroo makes it easier to remember new words and creates innovative opportunities for language learning.
3. Image Recognition for Language Learning - Woolaroo's image recognition technology provides an innovative and contextual way to learn new words and phrases in endangered languages.
Industry Implications
1. Language Learning - Woolaroo's innovative approach to learning indigenous languages could disrupt the language learning industry by improving accessibility and interactivity.
2. Edtech - Woolaroo's photo-translation tool presents opportunities for EdTech companies to utilize machine learning and image recognition technology for educational purposes.
3. Cultural Preservation - Woolaroo's open source photo-translation tool presents opportunities for industries and organizations focused on cultural preservation to utilize innovative technology to share and preserve endangered languages.