WhatsApp Experiments with In-App Message Translation on Android

WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature that will allow users to translate messages in their chats directly within the app. This feature is currently being tested in the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android and is expected to roll out to a broader user base soon. The new message translation feature will be powered by Meta AI and is designed to enhance the user experience, especially in multilingual conversations.

What to Expect from WhatsApp’s Native Message Translator

According to the update tracker WABetaInfo, WhatsApp's new message translation feature will allow users to translate messages automatically within their chats. The feature relies on downloadable language packs, which users can select and install on their devices. Once installed, these language packs will enable the app to translate messages in supported languages.

Users will have the option to set automatic translation for specific chats or manually translate individual messages as needed. Initially, this feature will be available in select languages, including Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese (Brazil), Hindi, and Russian. However, WhatsApp plans to expand the list of supported languages in future updates.

Customizable Translation Settings for Chats

The new translation tool will be customizable to fit individual preferences. WhatsApp users can enable or disable translation settings for specific conversations. By default, the translation feature is turned off, but users can activate it either directly from within individual chats or by navigating to storage settings. This flexibility allows users to choose whether to enable the translation feature for all chats or only for specific ones.

Downloadable Language Packs for Enhanced Translation

To enable the translation feature, WhatsApp will allow users to download language packs specific to the languages they want to translate. Once the language pack is installed, users can choose to translate a particular message or an entire conversation. When the translation feature is enabled for a chat, WhatsApp will automatically detect messages that need translation.

If users prefer, they can also manually choose to translate a message by long-pressing the message and selecting the "Translate" option from the pop-up menu. This provides a streamlined and convenient method for users to understand messages written in different languages.

On-Device Translation vs. Cloud-Based Services

One important aspect of this new feature is that WhatsApp’s translation will rely on lightweight, on-device language packs rather than cloud-based services. While this setup helps ensure that the translation feature is fast and accessible even without an internet connection, the translation accuracy may not always match that of cloud-based translation services, such as Google Translate.

WhatsApp Channels Support for Translation

In addition to individual chats, this translation feature will also be supported in WhatsApp channels, allowing users to engage in multilingual interactions within group-based channels. This extension is particularly useful for businesses, public figures, or community groups that communicate with people across different linguistic backgrounds.

Expected Rollout Timeline

Currently, the translation feature is available only to a select group of beta testers on Android. However, WhatsApp is expected to make it available to a wider audience in the coming weeks. As with many new features, the rollout may be gradual, and some users may have to wait a bit longer to get access to it.

Conclusion

WhatsApp’s new native message translation feature is poised to be a valuable tool for users who engage in multilingual conversations. By offering automatic translations and manual options for individual messages, this feature will streamline communication between people who speak different languages. With the inclusion of language packs and support for WhatsApp channels, the feature is set to make cross-language communication easier and more accessible for everyone.