In a significant move to advance artificial intelligence in translation and speech recognition, Meta has joined forces with UNESCO. This partnership aims to improve AI capabilities specifically for lesser-supported languages. Through its Language Technology Partner Program, Meta is inviting collaborators who can contribute speech recordings, written texts, and translated sentences. The collaboration seeks to enhance linguistic support for indigenous communities, starting with the Inuit languages of Nunavut, Canada. Additionally, Meta has introduced an open-source benchmark for evaluating AI translation models.

The initiative reflects Meta's ongoing commitment to bridging global communication gaps through advanced technology. By focusing on underserved languages, this partnership supports UNESCO’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages. The inclusion of diverse linguistic data will help create more accurate and inclusive AI systems. The Canadian territory of Nunavut has already signed on, providing crucial resources for developing translation systems for Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun. These efforts aim to preserve and promote these unique languages while enhancing digital accessibility.

To ensure the effectiveness of these AI models, Meta has launched BOUQuET, an open-source translation benchmark. This tool consists of sentences meticulously crafted by linguistic experts to assess the performance of AI translation systems. Contributions to this project are encouraged through a dedicated website, fostering a collaborative environment for improving AI language technology. BOUQuET serves as a standard test to gauge how well these models can handle complex linguistic nuances.

This collaboration underscores Meta’s dedication to leveraging AI for global connectivity. Last year, the company unveiled an AI tool capable of automatically dubbing Reels into multiple languages, complete with lip-syncing. Initially available for English and Spanish content creators in the U.S., this feature has since expanded. Moreover, Meta’s AI assistant now operates in 43 countries and over a dozen languages, highlighting the company’s strategic focus on connecting users worldwide through advanced translation and speech recognition technologies.

Through this partnership, Meta and UNESCO are not only advancing AI capabilities but also promoting cultural preservation and inclusivity. By supporting lesser-known languages, they are paving the way for a more connected and linguistically diverse digital world. The introduction of BOUQuET and the expansion of Meta’s AI tools underscore the importance of continuous innovation in addressing global communication challenges.