A New Haven, Connecticut couple, David Duda and Hong Liang, have found an unconventional way to maintain a strong marriage: a real-time translation app. The pair, who speak English and Mandarin respectively, depend on Microsoft’s Translator app to communicate effectively. Their reliance on technology is so complete they carry eight external battery packs to ensure constant access to the tool.
The Necessity of Digital Mediation
Mr. Duda, 62, and Ms. Liang, 57, have been married for three years, but their conversations require constant digital mediation. The app functions much like subtitles in a movie, providing a text translation of spoken words. This allows them to engage in dialogue despite the language barrier, though it demands full attention from both parties.
A Unique Approach to Connection
Their method of communication is deliberately slow-paced. Mr. Duda pauses for laughter while Ms. Liang reads his jokes, and neither can afford to half-listen or engage in distracted conversations. This forces them into a heightened state of presence, fostering deeper engagement than many couples experience.
“The translator makes you have to be more in the moment because you’ve got to be reading it and listening,” Mr. Duda explains. “You have to pay attention more, which obviously is a good thing when you’re relating to your spouse.”
The couple spends hours in close proximity – on the couch or in bed – meticulously ensuring they understand each other. This deliberate process reinforces their connection in a way that casual or hurried exchanges would not.
Modern Love in a Multilingual World
This case highlights a growing trend: the increasing role of technology in bridging cultural and linguistic gaps in relationships. For couples with language barriers, translation apps are no longer just a convenience but a necessity for meaningful communication. The Duda-Liang story underscores how intentional effort, even if mediated by technology, can foster intimacy and understanding in modern love.
Ultimately, their experience demonstrates that effective communication, regardless of the medium, remains the foundation of a lasting partnership.
