We are a little late on this one… In November, Panasonic announced that it would be launching a new megaphone in December. This megaphone is special because a Japanese speaker could speak into it and it would translate into English, Chinese and Korean. It won’t translate anything – it has about 300 pre-programmed phrases that it can recognize and translate.
Why a megaphone? The device was designed to help companies deal with the increasing number of tourists to Japan. They are hoping it will be used in transportation hubs and at tourist destinations. Users can add new phrases and updates by connecting to the internet. They are available for the bargain price of $183/month.