Microsoft launches Welsh language pack for Windows XP

The new, free updates join languages like Hindi, Maori and Gaelic and were developed over a period of fifteen months in partnership with the Welsh Language Board.

Terry Smith, senior director of public sector, Microsoft UK, said: “The Welsh Language Interface Packs are excellent news for computer users and underlines Microsoft’s commitment to ensure that its software is accessible to all."

A spokesperson for Microsoft told E-Health Insider that the packs could be useful in extending care to people whose first language isn’t Welsh, and for patients who go to see their doctor or go to their hospital, if they are Welsh-only speakers, it may allow them greater control over their health.

“The Welsh that is used is not regionally specific; the kind of language is conversational Welsh," said Microsoft.

However, the packs are only available for users with Windows XP. Microsoft confirmed to E-Health Insider that packs for earlier implementations of Windows would not be developed as XP would become “the industry standard".

Meri Huws, chair of the Welsh Language Board, 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 packs can be downloaded from the Windows website.