Google on Tuesday expanded its Translate service to include a pronunciation practice feature for users in the U.S. and India. The update initially supports English, Spanish, and Hindi, allowing learners to compare their spoken attempts with native audio samples.
The tool appears as a small microphone icon next to search results. When tapped, it records the user’s voice and displays a score based on accuracy. The score uses a five-star system, with additional feedback on syllable stress and intonation patterns. Google says the feature targets frequent travelers and language students who need immediate feedback.
The rollout follows internal testing in classrooms and language labs. Google cited user requests for more interactive learning aids as the reason behind the addition. The company did not announce broader language support beyond the three initial options.
Privacy details were not disclosed in the announcement. Users must grant microphone access for the feature to function. Google’s Translate app remains free with ads, though pronunciation practice is available without a subscription.
The update arrives amid steady growth in India’s English-learning market. Local tutoring chains have reported a 20% rise in demand for spoken English courses since 2024.
Source: techcrunch.com