Chain of Thought

Will AI Erase All Language Barriers? | Smartling's Olga Beregovaya

Apr 23, 2025

Olga Beregovaya, VP of AI at Smartling, dives into the captivating world of AI and translation. She discusses how AI has evolved from rule-based systems to sophisticated models that tackle language barriers. Key challenges like English-centric biases and the unpredictability of AI outputs are explored. Olga highlights opportunities in specialized language models and innovative workflows that enhance translator productivity. The potential for multilingual multimodality raises exciting possibilities for the future of global communication and more nuanced translations.

40:30

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Olga Beregovaya

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Quick takeaways

The evolution of NLP from rule-based methods to advanced machine learning models has significantly improved translation accuracy and efficiency.

Despite technological advancements, challenges like English-centric biases and the need for human oversight still hinder achieving seamless translation across all languages.

Deep dives

The Evolution of Language AI

Recent advancements in language AI have been significantly influenced by the introduction of transformer models, which have transformed how natural language is processed. This evolution allows for faster and more accurate applications in translation, marking a shift from traditional rule-based methods to pioneering machine learning techniques. The capabilities of processing natural language have grown remarkably, enabling applications that can scale operations at unprecedented speeds compared to earlier methodologies. The journey from syntax parsers to modern deep learning models showcases the vast improvements in accuracy and efficiency within the industry.

Intro

3min

Navigating Challenges in Translation Technology

17min

Navigating AI in Translation Challenges

5min

The Shift from Large Datasets to Clean Data in Translation Technology

3min

Balancing AI Models: Generalization vs. Explainability

5min

Transforming Translation: Multilingual Multimodality

8min

Are we on the verge of removing all language barriers with AI?

Olga Beregovaya, VP of AI at Smartling, joins host Conor Bronsdon to tackle this question, discussing the evolution from rule-based NLP to today's powerful LLMs. Together, they confront the persistent challenges that stand in the way, like the English-centric nature of AI, domain-specific inaccuracies, and the unpredictability of model hallucinations. Olga unpacks the difficulties faced when striving for accurate, nuanced translation across all languages, especially under-resourced ones.

Beyond these hurdles, the conversation explores the cutting-edge opportunities and technical innovations driving progress, including RAG, the rise of purpose-built models, agentic AI workflows, and the potential of multilingual multimodality. Olga shares insights into boosting translator productivity, achieving more predictable quality, and the path toward human parity in translation, examining how technology and human expertise will shape the future of global communication.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:14 Evolution of NLP: From Rule-Based to Machine Learning

02:40 Challenges in AI Translation

04:21 Biases in Language Models

05:28 Inference Time and Latency

05:44 English-Centric AI Models

08:53 Opportunities in AI Translation

09:14 Industries Benefiting from Language AI

10:36 Human-in-the-Loop Translation

12:06 Architectural Innovations in Language AI

16:20 Success with RAG Architectures