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Where digital worlds and translation studies collide: from localization to AI and beyond

Publicado 20.10.2026

  • Miguel A. Jiménez-Crespo

Miguel A. Jiménez-Crespo
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

Resumen

This paper explores the evolution of localization research within Translation Studies and examines how emerging AI technologies are reshaping multilingual digital communi-cation. Through a retrospective analysis of the author’s research career, the paper maps key developments in the study of localization and its evolution through the impact of crowdsourcing and translation technologies from the early 2000s to the present AI era. The discussion highlights how localization practices challenged traditional translation models by introducing new workflows, digital genres, and collaborative environments that required novel theoretical and methodological approaches (e.g. corpus-based transla-tion studies, mixed-methods research, and socio-cognitive perspectives). It also addresses the growing integration of AI-driven tools such as machine translation, large language models, AI dubbing, and automated localization management systems into professional localization workflows. Special attention is devoted to Human-Centered AI as a promis-ing framework for balancing automation with human autonomy, professional expertise, and user needs. The paper argues that future localization research must engage critically with ethical, social, and linguistic dimensions of AI, particularly regarding low-resource languages, digital inclusion, and equitable access to multilingual digital content.

Palabras clave

Localization, localization technologies, AI, Human-centered AI, crowdsourcing

PDF (English)

Citas

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