The Vatican introduces an AI-assisted live translation service

Source: Engadget

The Vatican is leaning into AI. AI‑assisted live translations are being introduced for Holy Mass attendees at the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter. The basilica has teamed up with Translated, a language‑service provider, to create live translations in 60 languages.

“Saint Peter’s Basilica has, for centuries, welcomed the faithful from every nation and tongue. In making available a tool that helps many to understand the words of the liturgy, we wish to serve the mission that defines the centre of the Catholic Church, universal by its very vocation,” said Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, O.F.M. Conv., Archpriest of the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter.
“I am very happy with the collaboration with Translated. In this centenary year, we look to the future with prudence and discernment, confident that human ingenuity, when guided by faith, may become an instrument of communion.”

How it works

Visitors can scan a QR code inside the basilica. The code opens a web page—no app required—where users can access live audio and text translations of the liturgy in their chosen language.

Technology behind the service

The service is powered by Lara, an AI translation tool launched by Translated in 2024. Translated states that Lara operates with the “sensitivity of over 500,000 native‑speaking professional translators.”