Egyptian app uses AI to translate hieroglyphs in real time

An Egyptian startup has created what it calls the world’s first real-time AI-powered hieroglyphic translator, reports China’s state news agency Xinhua. Developed by computer science graduate Ahmed El-Kholy, the Manetho app allows museum visitors to photograph ancient inscriptions and receive instant translations in multiple languages. The tool also offers augmented reality features that animate artifacts—such as Queen Nefertiti introducing herself or a marble bust recounting its history.

El-Kholy, backed by a 16-member team of technicians and Egyptologists, developed the app with support from Huawei’s startup programme, winning first place in the company’s 2024 Egypt–North Africa developer competition. The Chinese tech group provides cloud services, training and technical resources.

The app aims to enhance visitor engagement at museums and heritage sites, replacing passive viewing with interactive storytelling. El-Kholy envisions expanding into virtual reality tours, enabling users to explore tombs or view statues in 3D as they narrate their own histories.