AI Interpreting: The Single Most Important Thing You Need to Know About Regulation

In past blogs, we’ve explored the promise of AI interpreting alongside its present-day limitations. We’ve also introduced the idea of the "complexity spectrum," the understanding that every interpreting encounter is different and carries its own level of nuance, sensitivity, and risk.

Today, as more organisations turn to AI interpreting to increase access, improve efficiency, and scale language services, it is important to take a closer look at the evolving regulatory landscape.

Automated interpreting delivers real value. It can reduce wait times, broaden access to vital services, and help organisations communicate more effectively across languages. These benefits become even more powerful when AI is implemented thoughtfully and aligned with regulatory guidance and ethical practices.

One key fact stands out:

When AI interpreting is used, the responsibility for its performance belongs to the organisation using it. It does not fall on the technology vendor.

This means organisations must not only be excited about the potential of AI but also be prepared to manage the responsibilities that come with it.

Regulation is not something to fear, but rather a framework that helps support both innovation and integrity.

Why Regulation Matters

Regulators and industry leaders are working to ensure that AI interpreting is used responsibly and transparently. Their goal is to protect people while supporting the positive impact AI can have in expanding access to services.

Here are four areas where regulation is becoming increasingly important:

1. Quality, Accuracy, and Risk Mitigation In high-stakes environments, the margin for error is small. AI tools must meet high standards for accuracy. Regulators are asking for transparency around how these tools perform, including how often they make mistakes and where their limitations lie.
2. Bias and Ethical Responsibility AI models can reflect bias if not carefully designed and tested. This can lead to misinterpretations or unfair treatment. Regulations are evolving to require that organisations evaluate their AI systems for bias and put strategies in place to prevent or reduce its impact.
3. Data Privacy and Security Automated interpreting often involves personal, confidential information. Whether the setting is a hospital, courtroom, or customer support line, organisations must follow data protection laws such as HIPAA, GDPR, and emerging AI-focused privacy standards. The responsibility for compliance lies with the organisation using the AI tool.
4. Human Oversight and Transparency AI lacks emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and the ability to understand context in the way a human can. For this reason, regulations stress the need for human involvement. Organisations should be clear about when AI is being used, explain its limitations, and have a plan in place for human intervention when needed.

Best Practices for Organisations Using Automated Interpreting

To maximise the benefits of AI interpreting while maintaining trust and accountability, organisations should focus on the following:

• Match the tool to the situation. AI may work well for low-risk, structured conversations. More complex or sensitive interactions still require human interpreters. Know where your calls fall on the complexity spectrum and route accordingly.
• Ensure privacy compliance. Select AI tools that meet high data protection standards and put your own processes in place to ensure compliance with relevant laws.
• Keep up with changing regulations. The rules around AI use are evolving. Make it part of your regular process to stay informed and adapt as needed.
• Communicate clearly about AI use. Let clients and staff know when AI is being used and why. Transparency supports trust and informed decision-making.
• Include human backup plans. AI should not be used alone in high-stakes settings. Always have a process to shift to a human interpreter when the situation calls for it.

Moving Forward with Confidence and Responsibility

AI interpreting is opening doors to greater accessibility and efficiency in language services. It has the potential to transform how organisations serve multilingual communities. With thoughtful planning and attention to regulatory guidance, AI can be used in ways that are both powerful and responsible.

Regulations will continue to evolve, and so should your approach. By understanding the rules, recognising the risks, and keeping humans in the loop, organisations can move forward with confidence, delivering services that are not only faster and broader, but also trustworthy and ethical.

In the end, success comes from more than just using the technology. It comes from using it wisely.

Interested in exploring automated interpreting for your organisation?

Let’s talk. We offer free consultations to help you identify where AI can support your goals and where the human touch is still essential.