WhatsApp has launched a game-changing in-app message translation feature that lets users read and translate messages directly within the app, effortlessly eliminating language barriers.
This feature makes it easier for WhatsApp’s three billion users to converse between languages without abandoning discussions or using third-party applications. Its simplicity and privacy-focused design stand out in messaging technologies.
Seamless translation in chats, groups, and channels
The new WhatsApp translation tool allows users to long-press any received message and select a “Translate” option. Users can then choose the language they want to translate from or to, with the translated message appearing instantly within the chat.
This feature is available in one-on-one chats, group conversations, and Channel updates. Android users can use English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic.
Users of the iPhone can use over 19 languages, including Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, and others supported by Apple’s translation system.
An added convenience for Android users is enabling automatic translation for entire chat threads, automatically translating all incoming messages in those conversations.
According to WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta, all translations are done locally on the user’s device, which ensures that message privacy remains intact as WhatsApp itself cannot view any translated content.
Privacy by design and ongoing expansion
Meta emphasises the privacy protections built into this feature. Translations occur entirely on-device, meaning message content does not leave the user’s phone or WhatsApp’s servers, a critical consideration for a service known for end-to-end encryption.
Android users download specific language packs, around 24MB each, for translations to facilitate offline access and speed.
While the feature starts with a limited number of languages, WhatsApp plans to expand language support progressively. To ease uptake, this deployment is progressive across geographies and devices.
WhatsApp removes language as a barrier to personal and group messaging for billions globally, demonstrating its commitment to global communication.
WhatsApp’s in-app translation marks a significant shift in how people interact internationally, immediately extending the reach of conversations across linguistic divides with ease and privacy.