Liu Yangyang

524652046@qq.com

SHENZHEN is enhancing its global accessibility by deploying AI-powered translation devices at key cultural and tourism venues across the city. Spearheaded by the city’s culture, media, tourism, and sports bureau, the initiative seeks to improve services for international visitors and expats by integrating AI technology into public spaces.

As of March 5, a total of 31 AI translation devices had been deployed at a number of major locations, including the Shenzhen Library, the Shenzhen Concert Hall, the Shenzhen Museum of Contemporary Art and Urban Planning, and the Shenzhen Museum in Futian District, the Splendid China · China Folk Culture Villages theme park in Nanshan District, the China Printmaking Museum in Longhua District, and the Crowne Plaza Shenzhen Futian hotel.

Staff members at these venues have undergone training on how to use the devices.

The AI-powered translation tool, roughly the size of a business card and powered by leading domestic AI large language models (LLMs), offers real-time translation in more than 130 languages. It connects to smartphones via Bluetooth, allowing users to input text or voice for instant, accurate translations.

At major cultural venues, the technology enables international visitors to access multilingual exhibit descriptions, enhancing their understanding of Chinese history and culture.

Liu Jianbo, director of the Social Education Department at the Shenzhen Museum, highlighting the device’s benefits, said, “The AI-powered tool consolidates museum information, allowing visitors to access it instantly by tapping their phones. This not only promotes the museum but also enhances international communication through real-time translation.”

Beyond cultural sites, hotels across Shenzhen are adopting the devices to facilitate smoother interactions between overseas guests and staff.

From travel recommendations and restaurant reservations to room service requests, the technology is streamlining communication, improving service efficiency, and enhancing guest satisfaction.

The devices are also proving valuable at major tourist attractions such as Splendid China Folk · China Folk Culture Villages, where they provide instant access to historical and cultural information, eliminating language barriers for visitors.

Additionally, the Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport has put these AI-powered devices in place at multiple information service points throughout its terminal.

“Compared to traditional translation devices, the AI-powered devices offer greater accuracy, lower latency, and a more natural conversation flow,” said Wu Jing, manager of the service department at the airport.

According to Li Funing, who’s responsible for customer service at Jiatui Technology Co. Ltd., the device’s developer, the device doubles as a digital business card.

“It’s more than just a translator — it also allows users to store and share contact information. It integrates seamlessly with popular social media platforms, supporting cross-platform communication with real-time translation,” Li said.

The rollout of these AI-powered translation devices aligns with Shenzhen’s broader efforts to accommodate a growing influx of international visitors.

Official data show in 2024, the city recorded 31.61 million inbound tourist trips, a 56.9% year-on-year increase, ranking first nationwide. Its international tourism revenue soared to US$7.32 billion, up 93.2% from the previous year, ranking first in Guangdong Province.