SHENZHEN taxis with the yellow roof light will soon be equipped with MossTalk, an artificial intelligence (AI) translation device developed by New Translation Information Technology Co. Ltd. (NewTranx Tech), as announced at a signing conference with Shenzhen Bus Group on Tuesday.

The deal between Shenzhen Bus Group and NewTranx Tech is not only another key step in Shenzhen’s efforts to improve its internationalization but also a key practice of the city’s work plan on the application of AI translation products.

For taxis, MossTalk has exclusively developed AI voice wake-up, intelligent sound pickup and playback, and instant interruption functions to ensure smooth communication during rides. It supports instant mutual translation across 140 languages, delivering accurate results without an internet connection.

A taxi driver surnamed Li said, “In the past, when encountering non-Chinese passengers, we had to rely on gestures and guesswork, which made communication extremely difficult. It often wasted passengers’ time and left us frustrated. Now, with this AI translator, it’s like having a personal interpreter.”

“Despite its compact, palm-sized design, it can clearly explain route planning and tourist attractions. This not only makes the job much easier but also gives me more confidence in providing quality service to international visitors,” added Li.

An international tourist named Leo, who was visiting the city for the first time, said, “With the AI translation machine, I can communicate with the taxi driver without difficulties. It makes me not worry about language communication in an unfamiliar city. The experience is fantastic.”

This May, Shenzhen Bus Group deployed these AI translators at 14 service venues across the city, including the Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, the Lianhua Hill Park Bus Station, and Shenzhen Bay Park.

A first batch of 6,000 AI translation devices has already been deployed in intercity buses that run between Shenzhen and Zhongshan, Shenzhen airport express buses, and checkpoint bus stations. (Wang Jingli)