It is unlikely that the profession of translators will become obsolete in the next 20 years due to the increasing proficiency of AI in translation. While AI has made significant advancements in the field of translation, it is not yet capable of fully replacing human translators. Complex linguistic nuances, cultural contexts, and industry-specific terminology are areas where AI falls short, and human translators are still needed to ensure accuracy and nuance in translations. Additionally, there are legal and civil purposes where it is necessary to have a human responsible for the translation, rather than relying solely on AI.
While AI may automate some aspects of the translation process and improve translation accuracy and speed, it is unlikely to completely replace human translators. Instead, it is more likely that AI and human translators will continue to work together, with AI being used as a tool to aid human translators in their work. The translation industry is likely to see an increase in AI-based translating and interpreting jobs, but the human element will still be necessary to ensure the quality and accuracy of translations. In conclusion, the profession of translators is not likely to become obsolete in the next 20 years due to the limitations of AI in translation and the continued need for human expertise in the field.