I visit a lot of websites that aren't in English. As a result, I need a good translator so I can figure out what the site says. Up until today I had one...

My translator is a Windows desktop gadget, using Google Translate, and it's served me quite well. But a few days ago there was a message on it from the creator, Photo-Bon.com, stating that Google has changed their translation policy and will now be charging for the service. This means that the translator will no longer work as the creator cannot afford to buy access to Google Translate...this presents some problems for me.

I have been trying to find a new desktop translator that is as good (and simple) as this one, and after an exhaustive search, I have come to the conclusion that there is nothing comparable; the app doesn't work once it's downloaded, it no longer exists, or it's large and not user friendly.

I did manage to find two programs that are (allegedly) desktop translators, but, unlike my little Photo-Bon translator, they don't sit on my desktop. They are also 4 times as big and one of them (Translate.Net) is just terrible. Sure it translates, but the quality is poor and the interface is not user friendly.


The only answer I have found is using Google Translator (how ironic that Google Translator is still free, but they are charging third party sources for the use of their resources...). Of the two I've found that actually work (Google and Translate.Net), it is unfortunately my new nemesis, Google, who have the better option. The fact that I have to use their translate tool, which is not as simple and accessible as my Photo-Bon translator, makes me angry. But I am resigned...I need a translator tool and it appears that Google is my only option. I hate that.