When AI bridged a language gap, they fell in love

Mr. Romero visits Ms. Ochoa in Mexico about once a month. But when they're apart, the AI-powered app transports Ms. Ochoa to Mr. Romero's kitchen or to a wrestling tournament as he coaches his teenage son. They exchange messages via WhatsApp and video chat as Ms. Ochoa gets ready for work. In addition to the lip-dub feature, Ms. Ochoa often uses her iPad to translate their tête-à-tête, while Mr. Romero uses the Timekettle WT2 Edge: earbuds with two-way simulation translation that allow him to follow a conversation in an instant. real time.

Because their work hours differ, Ms. Ochoa usually works while Mr. Romero sleeps. “But in the morning it's always 'Good morning, honey,' accompanied by a video of LeRoy wishing me a good day,” she said.

The tech apps aren't always perfect, but Mr. Romero said that's sometimes a good thing.

“There are no retakes unless you record the video multiple times,” Mr. Romero said of the lip-dubbing app. “I think it brings out the perfect imperfections of communication, and I think it helps you grow.”

In October, Mr. Romero sent another translated video message — this time to Ms. Ochoa's grandmother, asking for her blessing before asking Ms. Ochoa to marry him in person. Mr Romero had shrugged off his AI helpers and said he had carefully memorized Spanish phrases in the weeks leading up to the engagement. They are planning a wedding this summer in Rosarito, Mexico.

Realizing they probably won't rely on AI tools forever, the couple has also started helping each other learn Spanish and English the old-fashioned way. “I try to teach him five flashcards a day when he's with me,” Ms. Ochoa said. 'He'll say to me, 'No, four – no, three. And I'm like, 'No, five!'”

In a joint interview this month, the couple chatted in both languages, pausing occasionally to make sure they were on the same page — which allowed Mr. Romero to offer Ms. Ochoa a “te amo.”