Language models (LLMs) have proven to be exceptional translators, and their capabilities align perfectly with the needs of users conducting web searches. However, the training data for LLMs is primarily in English, which can lead to suboptimal performance for less commonly used languages. To address this issue and provide a more inclusive search experience, I propose an innovative feature that would greatly benefit users who are not fluent in English.
The core idea is to translate the search query into English before performing the actual search. For example, if a user enters a query in Italian, they can request Kagi to translate it into English and conduct the search using the translated query. Conversely, if a user needs to search for content in Italian but lacks proficiency in the language, they can input their query in English and have it translated to Italian before the search is executed.
To illustrate the practical application of this feature, consider the following scenarios:
An Italian user is researching information about "intelligenza artificiale" (artificial intelligence). By enabling the automatic translation feature, their query would be translated to "artificial intelligence" before the search is performed, ensuring that they receive the most relevant and comprehensive results from English-language sources.
An English-speaking user is planning a trip to Italy and wants to find information about "migliori destinazioni turistiche in Italia" (best tourist destinations in Italy). By inputting their query in English and having it translated to Italian, they can access valuable local insights and recommendations that may not be available in English-language sources.
This is way different than the region search.
Moreover, I have personally experienced the benefits of using LLMs for translation when working with the Assistant. For more complex operations, I have sought the help of an LLM to translate my prompts from Italian to English, resulting in significantly improved performance. This experience further reinforces the potential impact of integrating automatic translation into the search process.
By implementing this feature, Kagi would not only enhance the search experience for users who are not fluent in English but also promote language diversity and inclusivity on the web. It would empower users to access information from a wider range of sources, regardless of their language proficiency, and foster a more globally connected online community.
What are your thoughts on this proposal?
