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Reading in Books Versión 5.2 (5800.2)

I don't have the display glitches reported by other readers. In my case, the problem is due to translation, which is one of the completely indomitable services of the App. The translation box does not have any type of menu for configuration, except for choosing the source language and the reader language. The positioning of the box on the screen, the size of its text or font, among other absent controls, pale in comparison to the quality of the translation itself. The translation is one-way, from English to Spanish. Both languages have enormous accumulated bases that should be able to offer a Spanish-speaking reader the enjoyment of works written in English. But the translator of the Books App looks like a child who learns and practices speaking: he eats letters, transforms one word into another, distorts the meaning of phrases or words. In short: it does not stand up even remotely compared to online translation applications and its performance is extremely unsatisfactory.

MacBook Pro 13″, OS X 10.11

Posted on Feb 20, 2024 8:04 AM

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4 replies

Feb 21, 2024 11:15 AM in response to Tom Gewecke

Dear Tom,

Thank you for giving your expert attention to my personal opinion. I guess my experience is not typical for most Apple Books users.

My complaint about the missing translation controls, in addition to the dictionaries used by the App, also stems from my age: I am not a young person and my eyesight requires some visual aids. I can enlarge the font size on the reading page, but this change does not affect the font size in the translation box.

I wrote the review after finishing reading my first book and I only show you 3 comparative cases of translation (Google vs. Books). Hopefully it's not too boring!

Regarding your questions, I would like to specify that:

  • My Mac is based on MacOS Ventura Version 13.4.1.

I am a Spanish speaker and constantly use the translation aids available. I'm used to common lapses, even on Google. However, the advances in online translation are astonishing, all due to the dedication and professional capacity of countless experts and linguists. I value your work and I don't want you to think that I am ungrateful.

Respectfully,

Elena.


...And one of my favorites!


Feb 21, 2024 9:45 PM in response to Tom Gewecke

Thanks for your comment, Tom.

The truth is, I'm not sure I will deepen my contacts with Apple. My knowledge is too limited to be of use by developers. The experience acquired is not very positive, in terms of my own ability to respond to questions, revisions, corrections and others, which also take place in the midst of great differences in time zone. The age and geographical location diminish my enthusiasm. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be heard and validated by an expert like you, when I "sparked" at the tortuous progress of my reading and the continuous confrontation between various translators. Being listened to and supported is very valuable to me, especially as I can check for errors in my writing on Google and not Apple Books😂

Have a beautiful day!

Respectfully,

Elena.

Reading in Books Versión 5.2 (5800.2)

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