Google has launched voice support for Twi, one of Ghana’s most widely spoken languages, across its platforms, including Google Voice Search, Gboard’s talk-to-type feature, and Google Translate voice input. This development is part of the tech giant’s broader mission to enhance digital inclusion by expanding its support for African languages.
The Twi integration, developed in collaboration with Google’s AI Research Center in Accra, enables millions of Ghanaian users to search, type, and translate using voice commands in their native language. This move enhances accessibility, making it easier for Twi speakers to interact naturally with technology.
Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Africa, highlighted the significance of this milestone: “This technology will impact over 300 million people across the continent, empowering them to engage with the web in their own languages. It reflects Google’s commitment to building technologies for Africans and the world.”
The addition of Twi is part of a larger initiative by Google to expand language support for underserved regions. Alongside Twi, other West African languages, such as Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Nigerian Pidgin, have been included. Additionally, Chichewa, Somali, Shona, and Tswana have been incorporated into the platform, showcasing Google's efforts to cater to diverse linguistic communities.
Matt Brittin, Google’s President for Europe, Middle East, and Africa, described this step as pivotal for Africa’s technological future. “The next decade will be Africa’s digital decade. By extending voice capabilities to over 300 million people across Africa, we are ensuring universal access to information and building a foundation for future digital growth.”
This update goes beyond simple convenience. It addresses barriers to digital access for non-English-speaking populations, empowering users to utilize search engines, virtual keyboards, and translation tools effectively. Such innovations are particularly significant in bridging the digital divide and promoting equal opportunities in education, business, and communication.
Twi’s integration also underscores Google’s commitment to its mission of making information universally accessible. The initiative aligns with the company’s ongoing investment in African technology infrastructure and its vision of fostering innovation across the continent.
For Ghana, this addition represents a significant step toward increased digital inclusion for Twi-speaking communities, paving the way for broader adoption of technology in local contexts. By enabling native language interaction with digital tools, Google is fostering a more inclusive digital ecosystem that empowers users and enriches their technological experiences.
This landmark achievement highlights the transformative potential of technology tailored to local needs and affirms Google's role as a global leader in creating accessible solutions.
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