Windows XP and Office 2003 Launched in Welsh

Microsoft Press Release 01/12/04

The Welsh language took a momentous step forward today into the field of computer technology as the Welsh Language Board and Microsoft unveiled its new Welsh language version of Windows XP and Office 2003.

The joint project means that from now on people who use computers can choose to have their workstations in Welsh, and with IT playing a central part in our daily lives, having Windows XP and Office 2003 in Welsh will have a major impact on increasing the opportunities to use the Welsh language.

Speaking during the launch Meri Huws, Welsh Language Board Chair, said: "This is without doubt a very important development for the Welsh language and confirms that the language is contemporary, relevant and useful. Having familiar computer programmes such as Word and Outlook available in Welsh will increase the opportunities for people of all ages to use the language in their everyday lives, both at work and at home."

The Welsh Language Interface Pack (LIP) sees the Welsh language joining other computer languages such as Hindi, Irish and Maori. The Welsh version has been carefully translated using conversational Welsh words making it easy for people to use. And with its menus and operations such as 'file' and 'save as' remaining in their standard positions, computer users will have no difficulty swapping over to 'Windows in Welsh'.

The Welsh LIP is the result of a twelve month partnership between the Welsh Language Board and Microsoft, drawing on the expertise of translation professionals Cymen and technology specialists Draig, together with the assistance of Canolfan Bedwyr, University of Wales, Bangor.

Terry Smith, Senior Director of Public Sector, Microsoft UK said: "This is excellent news for computer users and underlines Microsofts commitment to ensure that its software is accessible to all. As IT use continues to grow around the world it is vital that users of all language backgrounds are able to access the benefits of new technology."

The software will be available to download, free of charge, through the Welsh Language Board and Microsoft websites and on CDs from post@welsh-language-board.org.uk

Welcoming the new software Alun Pugh, Minister for Culture, Welsh Language and Sport added: "The launch of Windows in Welsh marks a real milestone for the language and fits in well with the Welsh Assembly Governments vision for a bilingual Wales. I find it very encouraging that at a time of increasing globalisation, a huge multinational company still recognises the importance of supporting diversity in languages and culture. I congratulate the WLB and Microsoft on all their hard work to bring Welsh to our desktops."

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