AbroadLink approaches machine translation with OpenAI

At AbroadLink Translations, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of technology to offer the most advanced language solutions. We’ve developed a web application integrated with XTRF, a leading translation management system, that connects via API with OpenAI's models (GPT-3.5, GPT-4, and GPT-4o mini) for automatic translation, also called generative translation in this context. This integration not only enables high-quality machine translations but also allows the models to be trained using each client’s previous translations for more customized results.

1. The power of generative translation

Our integration with OpenAI leverages Large Language Models (LLMs), offering a generative translation approach that surpasses traditional Neural Machine Translation (NMT) systems, such as those used by Google Translator or DeepL. With the ability to train models using client-specific translation memories, we can tailor translations to the exact terminology, tone, and style required by each business.

One of the features that makes this system truly innovative is that our project managers can customize translations by introducing prompts, whether working with generic models or client-trained versions.

In a comparative study conducted by AbroadLink Translations in April 2024, the GPT-3.5 model—enhanced with custom prompts—ranked second, just behind Google AutoML, and outperformed DeepL. This flexibility allows us to deliver contextually accurate and industry-specific translations.

2. Customized translation at an affordable cost

One of the key advantages of our system is that it makes customized machine translation more accessible, even for companies with smaller content volumes. While platforms like Google AutoML or Microsoft offer customized machine translation, the costs can be prohibitive for businesses with limited translation needs. With our OpenAI integration, we can offer the same level of personalization, utilizing each client’s translation memory, but at a much more affordable price.

This cost-effective solution ensures that companies of all sizes can benefit from customized translations, without sacrificing quality or precision. Whether your business is expanding globally or just needs periodic translations, our system is designed to meet your needs efficiently and economically.

3. Data privacy and the future of machine translation

We understand that data privacy is a major concern for many businesses, especially when dealing with confidential information. AbroadLink Translations has implemented strict security measures to ensure that all client data is handled securely. OpenAI does not use client data to train its models, unless explicitly permitted by the client, ensuring the confidentiality of all information.

Looking ahead, it is highly probable that generative translation, machine translation powered by LLMs,—as popularized by tools like ChatGPT—represents the future of the industry. However, while this technology is evolving rapidly, it still faces challenges like cost, speed, and issues like hallucinations (where AI generates inaccurate or nonsensical content). Despite these hurdles, the potential is immense, opening new applications in QA evaluations, terminology extraction, legacy translation alignments or TM maintenance.

It is also important to emphasize that generative translation is a tool that enhances productivity and quality, but it cannot replace the expertise of specialized professional native translators. Human oversight remains essential to ensure that translations are culturally appropriate, technically accurate, and free of errors. The combination of AI-powered tools and human expertise is designed to ensure that our clients receive the best possible translations.

This balance of advanced generative translation technology and the expertise of human translators allows AbroadLink Translations to deliver top-tier services while ensuring data security and affordability for all our clients.