WhatsApp's New In-App Translation Feature Rolls Out on iPhone and Android

WhatsApp's new message translation feature supports six languages on Android and 19 on iOS, with more languages coming soon.

Image: WhatsApp

WhatsApp is now introducing a new built-in message translation feature to both Android and iOS users, a move designed to truly break down language barriers. The messaging platform has begun the gradual rollout of this translation facility for messages, channels, and group chats.

This very handy new feature was just announced by WhatsApp. It allows users on either iOS or Android to translate messages received from recipients. To translate a message, you simply need to long-press on it and select your preferred language. This translation tool is available for one-on-one chats, group chats, and even Channel updates. For channels, this is a particularly useful feature, as it will help users who follow channels overcome language barriers.

Language Support and Key Differences Between Platforms

The new message translation feature supports a different set of languages on Android and iOS. Android users currently have access to six languages: English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic. In contrast, iOS users can access a wider variety of languages, with support for almost 19 languages from the start.

An interesting and important aspect of this feature, which has become a key selling point for WhatsApp, is the company's claim that the translation is a built-in, on-device process. This means "WhatsApp cannot see them," ensuring that user privacy and end-to-end encryption are maintained.

Android users also receive an additional feature: the option for automatic translation for an entire chat thread. When enabled, all incoming messages will be automatically translated into the user's preferred language, offering a seamless experience.

Availability and How to Get the Update

This new translation feature is being rolled out to all Android and iOS users starting from today. Since it is a gradual rollout, it will take some time to reach everyone. To ensure you receive this update as soon as it's available, it is recommended that you keep your WhatsApp application updated to the latest version.

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