WhatsApp has just launched a highly anticipated feature: direct in-app message translation, eliminating the need to copy and paste texts into external translators. This update has the potential to revolutionize the way we communicate, especially in conversations with people who speak different languages, in international groups, or while traveling.
Available for Android and iOS, the feature is being rolled out gradually, so it’s important to keep the app updated to receive it. The new tool uses on-device translation technology, meaning the process happens locally on your phone, ensuring greater privacy since messages don’t need to be sent to WhatsApp or Meta servers.
To translate a message, simply press and hold the desired text, then select “Translate” from the menu that appears. The first time you use it, you’ll need to download the relevant language package. After that, translations will happen instantly.
On Android, there’s an additional option to enable automatic translation for an entire conversation. With this setting, all incoming messages are displayed directly in the chosen language, without having to manually activate the feature for each one. This is perfect for group chats or customer service involving people from different countries.
At launch, the list of languages varies by operating system:
- Android: Portuguese, English, Spanish, Russian, Hindi, and Arabic.
- iOS (iPhone): support for up to 19 languages, offering greater flexibility for users who interact in diverse international settings.
More languages are expected to be added over time, making the tool even more complete.
This feature has great potential for everyday situations, such as:
- Providing fast and efficient support to foreign clients.
- Communication at international events, breaking down language barriers.
- Group chats where each participant writes in their own language.
- Traveling, making it easier to interact with guides, hotels, or local services.
It’s also useful in corporate environments, bringing global teams closer together and streamlining information exchange.
The arrival of integrated translation on WhatsApp is a major step toward breaking down language barriers. As one of the most widely used apps worldwide, this innovation is set to impact both personal and professional conversations.
If you haven’t seen the feature on your phone yet, check that your WhatsApp is updated in your app store. Soon, translation will be available to everyone, making communication simpler and more accessible anywhere in the world.
