Calgary Police roll out real-time translation in body cameras

Calgary Police Service has equipped every officer with body-worn cameras that translate conversations in real time — the first force in Canada to fully roll out the technology.

As of June 1, more than 1,400 translation-enabled cameras are active across the service, built with Axon Real-Time Translation. When an officer activates the feature during a call, the camera automatically records and translates simultaneously, breaking down language barriers without waiting for an interpreter.

Camera technician Rad Bouz says officers should activate the feature as soon as a language barrier appears. "The camera, this should already be on, and once you enable the translation feature, it'll automatically start the recording as well," he said.

The service began exploring the technology in January 2026 after identifying a gap in accessibility during routine police interactions. Dispatch logs regularly recorded requests for Mandarin, Punjabi, Arabic and French speakers — calls that tied up resources and delayed response.

Calgarians who spoke to CPS said the system could change how people engage with officers. "I feel like the people can be heard, even though they don't know the English language," said resident Felicia. "If they're able to translate the language for them, they can get their point across and understand what's happening around the community."

Police emphasize the technology is for routine and initial interactions — not formal witness statements or evidence gathering. It's meant to ease pressure on frontline officers and improve communication during critical moments.

More languages will be added over time. The service hasn't disclosed the cost but says the investment addresses a real need across the city.