New Microsoft software that translates system into Afrikaans
The software, known as a language interface pack, is available as a free download and sits on top of the existing Windows XP operating system. It translates 400000 words and phrases, including all menu items, tool bars, help files and error messages.
Microsoft has already released software overlays to convert Windows into Setswana and Zulu.
Its local developers work on the language conversion projects with the Pan South African Language Board, academics, translators from various communities and the departments of education, communication and science and technology.
One of the most time-consuming aspects is to translate the glossary of core technology terms into the different languages. To ensure linguistic excellence, the completed glossaries are sent to the language board for approval before they are incorporated into the software.
Collaboration with the various bodies and communities was necessary to deliver linguistically correct versions, said Pfungwa Serima, MD of Microsoft SA.
“We hope to encourage participation in the community and the world beyond by providing South Africans with access to technology in local vernaculars that not only honours cultural distinctions, but facilitates the preservation of language and culture.”
Internationally, Microsoft now provides about 40 language converters and plans to add 40 more.
Its next operating system, Vista, will support multiple minority languages from the start.
Inet-Bridge || Discuss this article
Loading ...