Read Frog — Immersive Browser Translation for Language Learning

Introduction

Read Frog is an open-source browser extension designed for language learners. It provides inline translations on web pages so you can learn vocabulary and grammar in context while browsing content you actually care about. It emphasizes an immersive approach where translations appear alongside the original text.

What Read Frog Does

• Translates selected words and sentences inline on any web page
• Shows vocabulary definitions, pronunciation, and example usage in context
• Supports multiple target languages for learners at different levels
• Saves translated words to a personal vocabulary list for review
• Uses LLM-powered translation for more natural and context-aware results

Architecture Overview

Read Frog is built with TypeScript as a browser extension using the WXT framework. The content script detects user-selected text and fetches translations from configured backends, which can include LLM APIs for context-aware results. Translations are rendered as inline popups or annotations directly on the page. A background service manages vocabulary storage, user preferences, and API communication.

Self-Hosting & Configuration

• Install from Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons, or build from source with pnpm build
• Configure your preferred translation backend in the extension settings
• Add API keys for LLM-based translation services like OpenAI or similar providers
• Set your native language and target learning language in preferences
• Export and import vocabulary lists for backup or cross-device sync

Key Features

• Immersive reading: learn vocabulary in the context of real web content
• LLM-powered translations: context-aware translations using language models
• Vocabulary tracking: save words you look up for later review
• Multiple languages: supports a wide range of source and target language pairs
• Open source: fully transparent codebase with community contributions

Comparison with Similar Tools

• Immersive Translate: focuses on full-page bilingual translation; Read Frog targets word-level learning
• Language Reactor: video subtitle learning tool; Read Frog works on web page text
• Toucan: replaces random words with translations for passive learning; Read Frog is on-demand
• Readlang: web reader with word saving; Read Frog is a browser extension with inline UI

FAQ

Q: Is Read Frog free to use? A: Yes, Read Frog is open source and free. You may need your own API key for LLM-based translation features.

Q: Which languages are supported? A: Read Frog supports many language pairs. The exact list depends on the translation backend you configure.

Q: Can I review saved vocabulary? A: Yes. Read Frog maintains a vocabulary list of words you have looked up, which you can review within the extension.

Q: Does it work offline? A: Translation requires an internet connection to reach the translation API. Saved vocabulary can be viewed offline.

Sources

• Repository: https://github.com/mengxi-ream/read-frog
• Documentation: https://github.com/mengxi-ream/read-frog#readme