Short definition
Audio Conference Interpreting refers to interpreting within a purely audio-based conference – participants (and often the interpreter) are connected by audio only, with no video.
Detailed explanation
In ACI, communication takes place exclusively via audio – for example, in a phone or audio conference. Interpreters receive no video image and must work solely from sound. This makes audio quality the decisive factor: without facial expressions, gestures, and slides, important contextual cues are missing, and even minor transmission issues make the work significantly harder.
ACI belongs to the family of remote interpreting formats and is distinguished in the literature from video-based variants. It suits short, clearly structured conversations but is considered demanding and tiring, since interpreters must fully compensate for the lack of visual information. Wherever possible, video is added instead – at which point it's referred to as video-based rather than audio-based remote interpreting.
Relevance in this subject area
ACI marks the lower end of technical equipment in remote interpreting. It shows how much interpreters depend on good audio – and ideally video as well.
Practical example
For a short-notice audio conference between two locations, an interpreter is connected by phone. She interprets without video – everyone involved deliberately speaks slowly and clearly.
Related terms
Audio Remote Interpreting (ARI), Telephone Conference Interpreting (TCI), Remote interpreting, ISO 20108, Transmission technology