‘AI will surpass humans in translation in three years’ – Unbabel CEO

Lisbon: Vasco Pedro, the co-founder of Unbabel, has been shaking things up in the language tech world since 2013. He started the company after a surfing trip with friends in Portugal, where they brainstormed ideas to tackle language barriers. Fast forward a decade, and Unbabel is now a big player, helping brands like Microsoft and Nike connect with customers in multiple languages.

Pedro’s vision combines AI with human input for real-time translation. The company has raised over $130 million and is generating around $50 million annually. He recalls how people thought he was crazy when he first pitched the idea. But now, Unbabel is making waves, especially after being the first Portuguese start-up accepted into Y Combinator.

Recently, Pedro showcased a new project called Halo at Lisbon’s Web Summit. This innovative tech translates brain signals into language, allowing people to communicate without speaking. It’s a game-changer for those who struggle with traditional communication methods. Pedro believes this could create a new way for people to interact, making it easier for them to express themselves.

Unbabel is also launching a new AI translation tool called Widn.AI, which aims to provide high-quality translations at a lower cost. Pedro is confident that in the next few years, AI will take over the translation industry, leaving humans behind. He acknowledges that while humans currently have an edge, the rapid growth of AI means that won’t last long.

He emphasizes that AI will enhance productivity in businesses, allowing employees to work smarter rather than just harder. Pedro’s journey shows how focusing on solving real problems and understanding customer needs can lead to success in the tech world.