The Clarification: What “Real-Time Generative AI” Actually Means
- Tim Scannell
- Jan 14
- 1 min read
“Real-time generative AI” is often misunderstood.
Real-time = fast response
Generative = creates output
AI = automated decision-making software
Put together, real-time generative AI means:
➡️ The system can generate content immediately when triggered.
What it does not automatically mean:
❌ It understands language
❌ It interprets meaning or intent
❌ It handles live, free-form communication
❌ It performs true translation
❌ It manages unexpected situations
Speed ≠ understanding
Generation ≠ interpretation
Why It’s Often Avatars Only in Sign Language
Most “real-time sign language AI” systems rely on avatars because:
Avatars can be pre-programmed with limited sign sets
Movements can be generated without understanding language
Errors are easier to hide in animation than with real humans
True sign language comprehension is still extremely complex
In other words, the system is often:
converting text → motion
triggering stored sign sequences
approximating signs visually
—not actually understanding sign language.
This is why many tools can look impressive while still being linguistically inaccurate or misleading.
Why This Matters for Accessibility
For Deaf communities, this distinction is critical.
A system can:
animate a signing avatar
respond instantly
appear “inclusive”
…and still fail accessibility.
Without real linguistic understanding, avatar-only solutions risk:
incorrect grammar
lost meaning
cultural mismatch
false confidence from hearing stakeholders
Clarity matters — especially for accessibility.
Inclusive AI requires honesty about limitations, not just speed or visuals.
Posted from a Deaf / sign language perspective.
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