Calgary Police Service launches Real-Time Translation feature to bridge language barriers

The Calgary Police Service is launching a Real-Time Translation (RTT) feature on Axon Body 4 body-worn cameras to reduce language barriers in communicating with Calgarians during calls for service.

RTT is designed to bridge language barriers during traffic stops, routine calls and everyday interactions with the public. By providing immediate translation, the tool helps reduce misunderstanding, supports de-escalation and builds trust with Calgary’s diverse communities.

This feature is part of Axon Assistant and enables two-way, real-time audio translation directly through an officer’s body-worn camera. It is fully integrated into the device, allowing officers to use push-to-talk functionality for bidirectional conversations without relying on phones or waiting for an interpreter.

The feature currently supports more than 50 languages, with more to be added over time, improving accessibility during police interactions.

Translated conversations are recorded in real time, with video and audio stored securely to support transparency and accountability. Officers are also able to switch between languages during a conversation, making the tool effective in situations involving multiple languages.

RTT is intended for routine, low-risk and initial interactions and is not a replacement for certified human interpreters. It supports communication in time-sensitive situations where waiting for an interpreter may not be practical or safe, or when there is a reasonable belief that a language barrier exists. Officers must deliberately activate the feature and should be used as soon as reasonably practical in those situations.

When the translation feature is activated, the body-worn camera automatically begins recording. Officers will inform individuals that Real-Time Translation is being used and clarify that it is not provided by a certified interpreter.

RTT is not intended for formal witness statements or evidence collection. Translation outputs must not be used as evidence for prosecution or in court unless reviewed and certified by a qualified human interpreter.

Officers will receive training through user guides, instructional videos and scenario-based exercises to ensure the technology is used responsibly and appropriately.

We will continue to evaluate the use and effectiveness of translation as we look toward future improvements. Our Service takes the privacy of the people we serve seriously. As such, we are in the final stages of completing a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) in accordance with the Protection of Privacy Act, which will be submitted to the Privacy Commissioner’s Office for review.