Google has folded its translation technology into Google Docs, allowing the office suite to instantly translate documents into 42 different languages.

The feature was launched without fanfare and is squirrelled away in the tools menu. It’s impressively implemented, with users simply required to select the text they want translated, then click “Translate document” and choose the language to translate to.

The tool then offers the option to either overwrite the original document, or save it as a new version elsewhere. The formatting and layout of the original document remain in place.

The company admits the technology still needs work, but claims it will improve over time: “Translations aren’t perfect, but we are continuously working on improving translation quality over time. We hope this new feature helps you more easily share information without worrying about language barriers,” says Rita Chen, associate product manager at Google Docs.

The feature arrives as Google begins to bolster its online suite ahead of the launch of Microsoft’s Office Web Apps, which will take Office 2010 online.

The company removed the beta label from Google Docs in July, and recently announced that it plans to spruce up the interface.

ANI