Field Notes / Software projects / Local AI

Detect the source language. Keep the target I chose.

Automatic detection should save a repeated choice while leaving the translation direction in my hands.

The translation page had two dropdowns: source and target language. After using it a few times, I noticed the model could often recognize the source even when I selected the wrong one. Choosing it afresh each time began to feel unnecessary.

I asked for automatic detection as the first source option. The software could handle that step. But the target I had already chosen needed to stay selected, rather than reverting to English when detection ran.

The swap button needed the same attention. When I swapped the sides, I expected the text to move too. Changing the labels while leaving the contents in place wasn't the action I meant.

These details are easy to miss in a demonstration. Translating several pieces of text in a row shows which actions have to be repeated. Next time I ask for automation, I'll describe the choices I want to keep as well.

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