Zain Launches First AI-Powered Real-Time Translation Trial in Kuwait
Zain announced the launch of the “AI Call Translation Pioneer Program,” becoming the first telecommunications operator in Kuwait to offer real-time translation between Arabic and English directly over phone calls, paving the way for a new generation of AI-powered smart communication solutions. The program’s launch builds on Zain’s 2023 demonstration of its network’s readiness for next-generation call innovations over 5G networks, showcased during the “New Calling” summit organized by the GSMA (Groupe Spécial Mobile Association) in Paris, where Zain was the only operator from the Middle East and North Africa region invited by the GSMA to present its roadmap and capabilities in smart calling.
The program will provide selected customers with early access to a smart calling experience that allows them to speak in either Arabic or English, while AI technology translates the conversation in real time for both parties. These capabilities extend beyond real-time translation of voice calls to include video calls, noise reduction features, and AI-generated call summaries, along with other enhancements designed to significantly elevate the calling experience. These solutions also aim to reinvent traditional phone calls by enabling customers to interact visually with menus directly on the call screen, without the need for external applications, helping them complete tasks more quickly and efficiently.
Unlike traditional translation apps, the service does not require downloading a separate application, creating an account, or using an additional device. It integrates directly into the smartphone’s calling interface, allowing users to activate real-time translation during a call. The service then recognizes speech and translates it instantly between Arabic and English, seamlessly transmitting the translated audio to the other party.
The recently launched Huawei Pura 90 series will be the primary devices for the first phase of the pilot program, combining an advanced 5G-Advanced smartphone experience with Zain’s award-winning 5G network capabilities in Kuwait. Feedback from participating customers will help further develop and refine the service, paving the way for its broader availability in Kuwait in the near future. Following its initial rollout on the Pura 90 series, Zain plans to expand the experience to include more compatible devices.
Zain continues to leverage its AI capabilities and advanced network infrastructure to deliver more accessible and inclusive digital experiences. By integrating translation directly into the calling experience, the service helps overcome language barriers without requiring users to switch between applications or interrupt the flow of conversation.
As part of its “4WARD – Progress with Purpose” strategy, Zain is investing in its advanced 5G-Advanced network capabilities to provide distinguished digital services for individuals and the business sector, making communication smarter, smoother, and better equipped to meet evolving customer needs.
