Hack of the day: Speak to anyone in India in their own language
Times of India
by TOI TECH DESKFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Times of India introduces a new weekday series called "Hack of the Day," offering quick, practical solutions to everyday challenges. This week’s hack focuses on overcoming language barriers in India, where over 22 officially recognized languages and hundreds of dialects create communication challenges for travelers, business owners, and anyone navigating multilingual environments. The Bhashini app, developed by the Government of India, provides real-time voice-to-voice translation across 22+ Indian languages, making conversations seamless and bridging gaps between diverse linguistic groups.
To use the app, download it from official sources and open the "Converse" mode. Select your language (e.g., Hindi) and the other person’s language (e.g., Tamil). Tap the microphone icon to start speaking in your native tongue—the app instantly translates and plays back your words in the selected language. The conversation flows naturally, as the app also interprets the other person’s speech into your language in real time.
This innovation is particularly valuable for India’s diverse population and anyone interacting with its multilingual society. Whether asking for directions, negotiating business deals, or conducting meetings, the Bhashini app simplifies communication by breaking down language barriers. For travelers exploring India’s regions or professionals expanding their reach, this tool offers a practical solution to everyday hassles, saving time, money, and stress.
In an increasingly globalized world, overcoming linguistic challenges is crucial for connectivity and collaboration. The Bhashini app exemplifies how technology can bridge cultural and communication gaps, fostering smoother interactions in India and beyond. As a user-friendly and government-endorsed tool, it represents a significant step toward making multilingual communication accessible to all.
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on Times of India on 2/20/2026