● Covered by 2 sources · 2 reportsMedium impact2 neutral
DeepMind's SL2T Model Enables American Sign Language Input on Pixel 11 Devices
Key points
- DeepMind launched its SL2T model for sign language transcription.
- The model is integrated into Gboard and Live Transcribe.
- It is initially available on Pixel 11 devices.
- Users can transcribe American Sign Language (ASL) to English text.
- The project involved collaboration with the Deaf community.
Initial Rollout on Pixel 11 Devices
DeepMind has released its new sign-language-to-text (SL2T) model, which is now available on Pixel 11 devices. This technology is integrated into Google's Gboard and Live Transcribe applications. While currently exclusive to Pixel 11, DeepMind has indicated that the tool will be rolled out to other devices in the future.
Functionality and User Benefits
The SL2T model allows deaf and hard of hearing users to input American Sign Language (ASL) directly into their phones, converting it into English text. This functionality enables users to sign for tasks such as searching the web, writing messages, and interacting with Google's Gemini chatbot, offering a faster and more natural communication method.
DeepMind states that this technology aims to support access in various modalities for deaf individuals, similar to how hearing people benefit from spoken language processing. It also seeks to bridge communication gaps between Deaf and hearing communities.
Community Collaboration and Development
The development of SL2T involved extensive collaboration with the Deaf community. Deaf perspectives influenced every stage, from conceptualization by a Deaf Googler to data collection, user studies, and impact assessment. An AI Sign Language Advisory Committee (AISLAC), comprising global Deaf organizations and experts, was established to guide responsible deployment.
A joint impact report for the release of SL2T 1.0 in Gboard and Live Transcribe was co-authored, detailing the technology's capabilities and limitations. This collaborative approach is planned for future sign language releases.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Google has integrated its SL2T sign language AI into Gboard and Live Transcribe, making it available first on Pixel 11 devices. This integration allows users to input American Sign Language (ASL) on their phones, aiming to improve accessibility for the Deaf community.
DeepMind has launched its new sign-language-to-text (SL2T) model, which is integrated into Gboard and Live Transcribe on Pixel 11 devices, allowing deaf and hard of hearing users to transcribe American Sign Language (ASL) into English text. This technology provides a new method for communication and interaction for deaf communities, bridging communication gaps with hearing communities.