WhatsApp launches new feature for iPhone users

CALIFORNIA: WhatsApp began rolling out its new built-in translation feature for iPhone users just weeks after it initially showed up on Android. The feature, part of version 25.28.74 of the app, allows users to instantly translate messages in 21 languages without having to use third-party apps.

How it works

After being updated, users can verify whether they are granted access by holding down any message, choosing “More…,” and then tapping on the “Translate” feature.

Upon initial use, WhatsApp will prompt you to select your source and target languages and install respective language packs. Once that’s done, translations are possible even when you’re offline.

The downloaded packs are cached under Settings > Translate > Downloaded Languages, from where users can delete or add new ones anytime. Meta has stated the rollout will take about a week to arrive for all iPhone users worldwide.

Supported languages

The feature now supports 21 languages, such as Arabic, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Dutch, English (UK and US), French, German, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese.

But the supported languages could be different based on the iOS version installed on your device, as WABetaInfo clarifies.

Some limitations

Meta explained that although you can translate sent and received messages in chats with people and groups, some content, like documents, contacts, locations, stickers, and GIFs, cannot be translated. The users will also require a stable mobile data or WiFi connection and enough space to download the language packs.

This latest addition to WhatsApp’s portfolio of AI-powered features comes on the heels of the recent launch of clever writing tips and message summaries.

With inbuilt translation, the app is obviously looking to make conversations easier across the world, particularly for those communicating over language barriers.