Skip to content
All work

Product · AI · 2026

Lingo Translate

An AI translator where you plug in your own API key or a local model. No accounts, no middleman.

Click to zoom · Swipe to explore

Problem

Most AI translators want a subscription and send everything you type to their servers. If you already pay for an AI API, or you'd rather keep your text private, that means paying twice and losing control.

Approach

I designed a lightweight app with no backend of its own for your text: you paste your API key or point it at a local model, and the app talks to that model directly. It detects the language automatically, so translating is just paste and go.

Solution

A web app built with Preact, Signals and Vite that loads almost instantly. It detects the language, lets you pick tone and formality, and works with several AI providers or a local model. Your API key stays in the browser, along with your history, favorites and glossary.

Role and stack

Role
Idea, design, full build
Stack
  • Preact
  • Signals
  • Vite
  • TypeScript
  • franc