Snapdeal Partners Bhashini for AI-powered Vernacular Capabilities
Snapdeal, the popular e-commerce platform, on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bhashini. With this partnership, Snapdeal aims to drive digital inclusion in the e-commerce space in India. The collaboration will use artificial intelligence (AI) to develop solutions and services that cater to nine different vernacular languages of the country. The online shopping platform has said that it will build AI-driven language translation solutions and AI-based voice-first technologies. A specific focus will be on Tier-3 cities and beyond.
Snapdeal and Bhashini sign MoU to develop AI-powered services
In a press releaseSnapdeal stressed that the MoU was signed to develop services and products to enhance translation efforts, which will ultimately drive digital inclusion in India. The company did not specify any specific tools or services it will build.
It is currently unknown whether these technologies will be open-sourced to help the entire e-commerce ecosystem or will be used for the Snapdeal platform. The MOU was signed between Bharat Venishetti, Group Head of Strategic Finance, Snapdeal and Amitabh Nag, CEO of Bhashini.
Bhashini, an independent business unit set up by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) within Digital India Corporation (DIC), said in a LinkedIn post after that the partnership would make digital and e-commerce services “accessible to all”.
“This partnership focuses on Snapdeal’s commitment to driving digital inclusivity in India. We look forward to combining Bhashini’s deep expertise in language solutions with Snapdeal’s robust ecommerce platform to empower individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to increase the accessibility and affordability of online shopping, especially in Tier 3 cities and beyond,” said Himanshu Chakrawarti, CEO, Snapdeal.
It is believed that the AI integration with Bhashini will enable Snapdeal to show its product catalogue, product descriptions and other parts of the platform in different vernacular languages without having to manually update them. The e-commerce platform could also introduce voice search features.
“We are committed to leveraging technology for the greater good and enabling inclusive digital experiences for all. Through innovative use of AI and technology, we are determined to break down barriers, create greater digital participation and create a more connected and inclusive digital ecosystem for all Indians,” Nag said.
