Glossary

Video and audio translation

Video and audio translation is the process of converting spoken or on-screen content from one language into another to make multimedia accessible to global audiences. It may include transcription, translation, subtitling, voiceover or dubbing, ensuring that both dialogue and meaning are conveyed accurately across cultures.

Description

Video and audio translation enables companies and creators to communicate effectively with multilingual audiences. The process typically begins with transcription or speech recognition, followed by translation into the target language. Depending on the content type and purpose, this translation can then be presented through subtitles, voiceover, dubbing or a combination of methods.

High-quality multimedia translation requires linguistic accuracy, cultural awareness and technical precision. Translators and engineers work together to synchronize timing, manage on-screen space and preserve tone and intent. Terminology databases, Translation style guide and quality assurance checks maintain brand consistency across formats. Advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) now enhance speed and efficiency. Neural machine translation, Generative subtitling and AI voice synthesis allow teams to produce multilingual content faster, while human reviewers ensure linguistic and cultural accuracy. These hybrid workflows combine automation with expert review to achieve scalability without compromising quality.

Example use cases

  • Marketing: International marketing and brand campaigns.
  • Corporate: Corporate communications, product demos and webinars.
  • Training: Training, eLearning and onboarding content.
  • Media: Streaming media, advertising and entertainment localization.
  • Compliance: Accessibility and compliance for public-facing videos.

Key benefits

Reach
Expands visibility and audience engagement worldwide.
Accessibility
Supports inclusive communication for diverse users.
Speed
Accelerates multilingual production through AI-enabled workflows.
Consistency
Maintains terminology and tone across markets.
Consistency
Adapts to multiple languages, platforms and formats.

RWS perspective

Video and audio translation forms the foundation of RWS’s multimedia localization and AI-enabled translation services.

Through Genuine Intelligence, RWS integrates automated technologies – such as Language Weaver for neural translation and Trados for content management – with human linguistic and creative expertise. RWS also draws on its Creative and digital content localization creative team to deliver fully localized video, voice and motion-graphic production. Together, these capabilities help organizations scale content efficiently while preserving quality, cultural accuracy and brand impact.