Amazon introduces a new Kindle Translate tool in beta for AI-generated ebook translations

Amazon is beta-testing Kindle Translate, a new AI-powered tool that automates ebook translations for self-published authors. Available to select users on the Kindle Direct Publishing platform, it can translate entire books between English and Spanish and from German to English. Amazon says more languages will be added over time.

Translations produced with Kindle Translate are fully automated and evaluated for accuracy before publication. Authors can preview the translated versions before releasing them, even if they do not speak the target language. Books using the tool will include a “Kindle Translate” label to indicate that the translation was AI-generated.

While this feature aims to lower barriers for independent authors seeking global audiences,though questions remain about the accuracy and nuance of AI translations due to hallucinations. Critics note that nuanced language, cultural context, and stylistic flair can be difficult for automated systems to capture. Kindle Translate, like other AI tools, may also be susceptible to inaccuracies or unintentional errors. Amazon is planning a broader rollout of the tool once the beta phase is complete.