Ever wonder how Han Solo could understand Chewbacca? Now we know. Han had Sharp’s prototype translator tucked in his pocket (I always wondered why he wore that vest).

Sharp’s as-yet-unnamed handheld device can translate English into Japanese and Japanese into English. All you need to do is speak into the device and a few seconds later it reveals a text-based translation on its monochrome touchscreen. Text can also be croaked out by a computerized voice.

Unfortunately, TWICE says the translator’s pricing and release schedule haven’t been determined.

• Picture available at Engadget
• Prototype handheld translates between Japanese and English.
• Translations displayed on-screen and read by computerized voice.
• Pricing and availability not released.