Real-time language translation now on Calgary police body-worn cameras

Calgary police officers have been using body-worn cameras since 2019. (Calgary police handout)

Calgary police officers will now be able to use translators on their body-worn cameras to help them speak with people in dozens of different languages.

The Calgary Police Service announced Monday that officers now have access to a Real-Time Translation feature on their Axon 4 cameras.

It’s hoped the translators will help to bridge language barriers during traffic stops, routine calls and everyday interactions, reducing misunderstandings and building trust with the city’s diverse communities.

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

“This feature is part of Axon Assistant and enables two-way, real-time audio translation directly through an officer’s body-worn camera,” said a CPS news release. “It is fully integrated into the device, allowing officers to use push-to-talk functionality for bidirectional conversations without relying on phones or waiting for an interpreter.”

The tool can currently translate more than 50 languages and more will be added over time.

Translated conversations are automatically recorded with video and audio.

Officials say officers can switch between languages during a conversation, making the tool effective in situations involving multiple languages.

Police stress the technology is intended for “routine, low-risk and initial interactions” and is “not a replacement for certified human interpreters.”

“It supports communication in time-sensitive situations where waiting for an interpreter may not be practical or safe, or when there is a reasonable belief that a language barrier exists,” said a news release.

Police say the translator isn’t intended for formal witness statements or evidence collection.

“Translation outputs must not be used as evidence for prosecution or in court unless reviewed and certified by a qualified human interpreter,” said a news release.

“We will continue to evaluate the use and effectiveness of translation as we look toward future improvements.”