Request for Information- AI-assisted handheld translation devices
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice/Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential sources for AI-assisted handheld translation devices. These devices are needed for the International Drug Enforcement Conference (IDEC) in Buenos Aires, Argentina, scheduled for August 2026. This RFI is for informational and preliminary planning purposes only and is not a request for proposals or quotes. Responses are due March 11, 2026.
Scope of Work
The DEA seeks end-to-end AI-assisted translation services, including:
- Real-time (live) translation of spoken presentations, panels, and Q&A sessions.
- Support for a minimum of Spanish, Arabic, English, French, Portuguese, Chinese, Russian, and up to 70 additional spoken languages.
- Provision of 100 to 500 handheld AI-assisted, real-time voice translator devices.
- Secure access to translation devices and delivery of translations via text and/or audio.
- Capability to support at least 1000 concurrent users simultaneously across multiple languages without service degradation.
Technical Specifications for Handheld Devices:
- High-precision voice recognition and translation, effective in noisy environments.
- Support for 4G LTE/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth and offline translation capabilities.
- Minimum 8 hours of battery life.
- User-friendly interface, compact design, clear audio output, and headphone outlet.
- Individual volume controls and language selections.
Security and Privacy:
- Compliance with data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR).
- No unauthorized recording, storage, or distribution of conference content.
- Secure authentication or access controls for attendees.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified at this stage; market research will inform future set-aside decisions. Small businesses are encouraged to respond.
- Response Due: March 11, 2026, by 10:00 AM ET
- Published: March 4, 2026
- Point of Contact: Naomi Collier (Naomi.S.Collier@dea.gov)
Evaluation
Responses will serve as a market research tool to identify potential sources, assess industry capabilities, and determine the method of acquisition and potential set-aside for any future solicitation. This RFI does not bind the Government to solicit or award a contract.
Additional Notes
Interested vendors should provide a tailored capability statement (1-5 pages) addressing the attached Statement of Work, along with company information (DUNS, NAICS, business size, GSA schedule if applicable). Responses must be submitted via email in PDF format. No proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information should be included.