Google has officially launched Twi, one of Ghana’s most widely spoken languages, on its Voice Search, Gboard talk-to-type, and Google Translate voice input features.
This update is part of Google’s initiative to broaden its support for African languages, now encompassing 15 new languages across the continent and improving accessibility for over 300 million people.
Developed in partnership with Google’s AI Research Center in Accra, the integration allows Ghanaians to search, type, and translate directly in Twi using voice commands.
This innovation enables millions of Twi speakers to engage with technology in their native language more naturally and intuitively.
In addition to Twi, other West African languages added include Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Nigerian Pidgin.
Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Africa, emphasized that this technology will significantly impact over 300 million people across the continent, facilitating web interaction through voice. He stated, “It’s one example of how Google in Africa is building technology for Africans and the world.”
This voice support enhancement aligns with Google’s mission to make information universally accessible.
Matt Brittin, Google’s President for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, noted that “the next decade will be Africa’s digital decade,” highlighting the importance of extending Voice Search, voice typing on Gboard, and voice input on Translate to a broader audience.
Twi now joins other African languages recently incorporated into Google’s Voice Search and Gboard, including Chichewa, Somali, Shona, and Tswana.
This expansion marks a significant step towards increasing digital inclusion for Ghana’s Twi-speaking population, demonstrating Google’s commitment to developing technologies that resonate with African communities.
