WhatsApp is launching one of its most powerful updates yet, one that could completely change how users communicate across language barriers.
What's the new WhatsApp update?
The new feature allows users to convert messages between different languages directly within WhatsApp.
Users can choose and download language packs for offline use.
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The translation works in individual chats, group conversations and Channel updates, but not for documents, GIFS or stickers.
"With more than 3 billion users in over 180 countries, we’re always working to keep our users closely connected, no matter where they are in the world," the Meta-owned app explained. "But we understand that sometimes language can be a barrier to getting things done or expressing how you truly feel. That's why we’re excited to bring message translations to WhatsApp, so you can more easily communicate across languages."
Which languages does WhatsApp translation support?
WhatsApp confirmed that Android users will find the translation feature available in six languages: English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic.
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Whereas, WhatsApp on iOS supports translation of 19+ languages:
Arabic
Dutch
English (UK)
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English (US)
French (France)
German (Germany)
Hindi
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Indonesian
Italian (Italy)
Japanese
Korean
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Mandarin Chinese (China)
Mandarin Chinese (Taiwan)
Polish
Portuguese (Brazil)
Russian
Spanish (Spain)
Thai
Turkish
Ukrainian
Vietnamese
"We hope this feature helps break down language barriers and allows users to connect more deeply with loved ones and communities around the globe," the social media platform added.
When is the translation available?
WhatsApp is rolling out the feature gradually from today (24 September). However, the messaging platform hasn't provided specific timelines for when all users will receive access. Users should check for app updates to receive the feature when it becomes available for their device.
"If you see a message in a different language, you can now simply long-press and tap ‘Translate’", WhatsApp added. "We're rolling out message translations to Android and iPhone users gradually from today, in a few select languages to start with more to follow."
How to enable WhatsApp translation
Translation works for personal chats, groups, and Channel updates.
To set it up on Apple's iOS, simply long-press the message to translate, select More > Translate. Choose the language you want the message to be translated to or from, and a download will then be required to access the language pack. You can manage the installed languages from the Settings > Translate > Downloaded languages.
Android users will need to long-press the selected message, then tap on the three-dot menu at the top, and choose to download the language. Tap on translate to view the converted text. Users can also tap the three-dot menu to remove translation or enable automatic chat translation.
Are there any privacy concerns?
WhatsApp processes translations on-device rather than sending data to external servers, the company reported on its announcement.
The system reportedly downloads language packs locally and appears to use traditional translation methods rather than cloud-based AI processing.
While this keeps messages private, the company warned it may result in less accurate translations compared to cloud-based services.