Getting Started with TimeKettle WT2 Edge: Real-Time Translation Headphones

The WT2 Edge are headphones that allow instant translation of your conversations. We were able to take charge of them and the result was astonishing.

Timekettle, you know ? This brand, rather unknown to the general public, distributes several real-time translation devices, notably ; destination for businesses and professionals. Building on a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2017, the firm continued to expand. its expansion until '` today offer various solutions and devices. In addition to these small translation boxes, Timekettle also offers some headphones specialized in translating conversations in a group or between two people.

We were able to try out the WT2 Edge headphones for several weeks. eacute;el" on the company's website. Discover our handling of the WT2 Edge.

Editor's note: This review was completed by fully realizedé &agrav; from a loaned copy; by the brand. We have available of a freedom total in the tone and writing of this article.

A basic design that fits everywhere

We are not going to beat around the bush: the WT2 Edge does not stand out with its design. The latter resembles, à Let me get it right, ' any wireless earphone that could be found in a specialized store. The difference is that the WT2 Edge are equipped with a small LED in the shape of a discussion bubble. The latter is not only aesthetic since it allows you to know when the headphones are in operation or even when if they are fitted. A simple way to ensure that they can function correctly for translation.< /p>

© Linternaute/Julian Madiot

The overall fit of the WT2 Edge is still pleasant. We were able to try the headphones during meetings lasting from ten to forty minutes without feeling any discomfort or pain in the ear. However, these are not designed to be worn for long hours (as could be the case with music headphones like AirPods) so we would advise reserving them for specific needs such as meetings or discussions.

The case of the WT2 Edge doesn't stand out either and just has a nice reflective plastic coating with the Timekettle brand name on top. The latter, however, remains discreet and practical for storage. in a pocket, drawer or small bag. The case is also equipped with a small magnetization to prevent you from opening it unintentionally and risking dropping the earphones. Not stupid!

The WT2 Edge are also not stingy with accessories. Timekettle therefore provides the case, the earphones, and a user manual , other tips, a charging cable (without block) and a "Timekettle Fish Card" which we will return to a little later.

Instant translation in several forms

We mentioned it; Previously: The WT2 Edge are earphones whose purpose is to provide real-time translations of your conversations. A great feature ideal for two profiles in our opinion:

• Professionals who must manage B2B relationships with foreign correspondents.
• Travelers who wish to hold a conversation with someone who does not speak their language.

We were therefore able to try the WT2 Edge in these two situations. The headphones have several options for translation which can be helpful& ;eacute;rer ideal depending on the situation.

In order to use the WT2 Edge, you need to have the official Timekettle application. Headphones remain dependent on an application, and therefore on a telephone, to function correctly. You also need to create or connect to your account. an account to be able to use the firm's services (although it is still possible to use a Google, Facebook or WeChat account).

The application interface is quite well thought out. Too bad the tutorials are in English. © Linternaute/Julian Madiot

The WT2 Edge has several very interesting modes for real-time translation. These latter are &agrav; use according to your preferences or situation:

• Simulator mode: each interlocutor wears an earpiece. Your hands remain free and each earpiece translates what the person says.
• Listening mode: Speak to the microphone near the speaker to get translation directly into the earphones.
• Speakerphone mode: while wearing both earbuds, hand your phone over to the speakerphone. another person to obtain the translation.
• Touch mode: one earphone per person. Touch the earphone or microphone to switch from one person to another. another.

Although we haven't met any no particular problem with the available modes, we still preferred to use them. the first two during our tests. The simulator mode is particularly perfectly suited to the game. to keep your hands free and be able to make presentations during a meeting with another speaker. We also appreciated, during a discussion with a non-French speaking person, being able to each wear an earphone while showing things like information about our telephone to find our route or a location.

Regarding translations, nothing à repeat. The results are instantaneous and extremely fluid. To the point that it's quite easy to come out with a few stray sentences that can   be misinterpreted by WT2 Edge. You must therefore remain as focused as possible. and speak out loud so that the listeners clearly pick up the sentences being spoken. to transmit. The result turned out to be quite stunning, and we were able to carry out numerous translations in real time.

Around forty languages ​​available

The WT2 Edge headphones currently support 40 different languages ​​and 93 distinct accents. A large choice is therefore available for your needs, including # English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Danish, Russian or Cantonese. However, these translations require an internet connection to be carried out.

There is, however, an offline mode for cases where you do not have a network (on an airplane, in a country where you do not have mobile data or in a poorly served area for example). The application then provides 8 different languages ​​including Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Russian, German and French.

These offline translations are however not included with the application and must be “purchased” via points named Fish. A translation “English to French” costs for example 5 Fish. The same translation in the other direction, “French to English”, also costs 5 Fish.

Fortunately, acquiring the WT2 Edge also guarantees a card guaranteeing you 30 credits at any time. Use it to acquire the translations you need. However, you will need to make sure to “purchase” beforehand to add them to your list. the application before you use it without connection.

Decent battery life, but recharging takes a bit of time

Timekettle announces a battery life of three hours for its WT2 Edge earphones. Although we have not been able to verify this data. (difficult to carry out three full hours of translations), we are tempted to believe them. After an hour of use , our headphones showed 65% and 62% of their batteries respectively.

It is also possible to store the earphones in their case to benefit from an initial recharge of up to 100%. 12 hours of battery life. Ideal if you need to reuse the headphones several times during the day.

Côté recharge, allow a little over 1h20 to go from 0 to 100%. It's a bit slow. Fortunately, it is possible to charge the earphones sufficiently to enjoy them 'on the go'. in a few minutes.

Our conclusion à getting started with WT2 Edge

If the price rather ôhighé of 349 euros of the WT2 Edge had scared us a little before trying them, we were finallyé rather convinced. The initial promise is kept: the headphones easily translate conversations and exchanges as long as they are spoken lively voice and sufficiently clear. The translations are very fluid to the point that it can be quite easy to see unwanted terms (such as onomatopoeia) being translated. also translated during our testing sessions.

We could possibly criticize the obligation to have an account and the mobile application to take advantage of WT2 Edge, but the Offline mode still provides the necessary tools when a translation is required there. où you have no connection.