If you need a quick translation for your Chinese content but are unfamiliar with Chinese characters, then Chinese photo translation apps can be your lifesaver. These apps can translate Chinese image directly, making them handy tools for on-the-go translation needs.
Online apps to translate Chinese image
There is a bounty of Chinese photo translation apps available nowadays. In this article, Thao & Co. would like to recommend 3 of the most popular choices.
Dear Translate
Dear Translate is a users’ favorite translation app with hundreds of thousands of downloads and a 4.5-star rating on Google Play.
Pros:
- ● Translates between Chinese and over 100 other languages
- ● Free offline translation function
- ● Small app size requiring minimal storage space
Cons: Only available for devices running Android 4.0 and above, not compatible with iOS devices
Microsoft Translator
Developed by Microsoft, Microsoft Translator is capable of translating Chinese and over 70 other languages. With this app, you can translate Chinese content without entering text by simply capturing it with your camera or uploading an image from your device.
Pros:
- ● Support a wide range of languages
- ● Able to detect the source language
- ● Available for both online and offline usage
- ● Allows for saving translation and checking pronunciation
Cons:
- ● Translation can be incoherent and ambiguous.
- ● Automatic source language detection is not always reliable.
Hanzii Dictionary
Hanzii Dictionary is another highly recommended app when it comes to translating Chinese images. It is not only a handy translation tool but also a great assistant for Chinese language learning.
Pros:
- ● Supports offline translation
- ● Translation for various types of content: text, images, voice
- ● Offers additional useful features, such as pronunciation guides, HSK test preparation materials, grammar lessons, etc.
Cons:
- ● Premium content is locked behind a paywall.
How to translate Chinese text in an image with Google Translate
Besides the abovementioned photo translation apps, Google Translate is a versatile tool for all kinds of translation needs. This app is available on both PCs and mobile devices.
Translate Chinese image using phone camera
- ● Step 1: Download the Google Translate app from Google Play or Appstore
- ● Step 2: Run the app and select the source and target language
- ● Step 3: Tap the camera icon and grant the app access to your device’s camera
- ● Step 4: Point your camera at the text you want to translate, tap the camera symbol, and then tap the arrow to view the options. You can either upload an image from your device’s gallery or scan the content for instant translation.
Translate Chinese image on computer desktop
- ● Step 1: Access https://translate.google.com/
- ● Step 2: Select detect language or choose your source and target language
- ● Step 3: Click on the “Image” tab. Here, you can upload an image from your computer or paste a link to the image you want to translate.
The drawbacks of Chinese photo translation apps
Despite the great convenience and speedy translation, Chinese photo translation apps still have certain limitations:
- ● Struggles in recognizing intricate Chinese characters, especially in small or handwritten text.
- ● The meaning of sentences in Chinese is determined by context, which translation apps may not be able to identify.
- ● Unable to translate complex idiomatic expressions correctly.
- ● Translations can be overly literal and incoherent and require further editing.
When to seek professional services to translate Chinese image?
If you need translation of basic and general content for a quick reference when learning or traveling, photo translation apps can be extremely helpful.
However, when it comes to important documents that require complete precision, it is best to rely on professional translators who possess extensive industry knowledge. Such documents include:
- ● Personal documents
- ● Legal documents
- ● Medical documents
- ● Technical documents
- ● Marketing materials
- ● Brochures and catalogues
- ● etc.
By working with professional translators, you will not only receive accurate translations but can also expect:
- ● Clear and polished wording.
- ● Accurate rendering of jargon, slang, dialects, and other complex elements.
- ● Translations that align with the culture of the target audience
- ● Minimized risk of data breaches
Best Chinese image translation services
If you are worried about the accuracy of translation apps, then consider Chinese image translation services at Thao & Co. Our linguists not only possess high levels of expertise but are also capable of utilizing translation management tools to deliver accurate and well-formatted translations that fully capture the original message.
Thao & Co.’s document translation services offer numerous benefits:
- ● Complete accuracy: Our translations are precise in all aspects, from the meaning and writing style to terminologies and dialects.
- ● Expert linguists: Our professional linguists hold prestigious degrees in Chinese studies and Chinese proficiency certificates equivalent to HSK5 or above, guaranteeing top-notch translations for your content.
- ● Competitive rates: Thao & Co. is committed to providing cost-effective language solutions, offering transparent and itemized quotes with no hidden fees.
- ● Dedicated client support: Our consultants are always ready to assist you in finding the best solutions for your translation needs.
- ● Unrivaled security: Every translator working on your project is bound by a Non-disclosure agreement to ensure utmost security for your data.
- ● Seamless workflow: We utilize our proprietary platform to streamline file management, billing, and progress tracking.
Ready to experience the difference? Click on the Get a Quote button to send us your request. Our consultants will promptly reach out to answer all of your questions.