A multi-lingual announcement system has been installed at 12 Tokyo 2020 venues ©Omotenashi Guide

A multi-lingual announcement system has been installed at 12 Tokyo 2020 venues here.

The technology displays announcements which are read out at venues as text on smartphone screens.

It means more people will be able to understand messages about subjects including coronavirus precautions. 

However, limited numbers will be able to take advantage at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics as all fans have been banned from venues due to COVID-19.

To use the service, those in the venues need to download the Omotenashi Guide app onto their phone, with messages then available in Japanese, English, traditional and simplified Chinese, Korean, Spanish and French.

People in Tokyo 2020 venues can read announcements on their phones in multiple languages ©Tokyo 2020
People in Tokyo 2020 venues can read announcements on their phones in multiple languages ©Tokyo 2020

The system, installed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, will remain in use at future events in Tokyo so is seen as a legacy benefit of the Olympic and Paralympic Games here.

It will also be useful for people with hearing impairments.

Venues where the system will be in place are the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, Ariake Arena, Sea Forest Waterway, Tokyo International Forum, Ariake Gymnastics Centre, Kasai Canoe Slalom Centre, Musashino Forest Sport Plaza, Ariake Tennis Park, Toyo Aquatics Centre, Tokyo Stadium, Oi Hockey Stadium and the Tatsumi Water Polo Centre.