Meta has announced that WhatsApp is adding a new feature that will allow users to translate messages directly within the app. The feature began rolling out on Tuesday, September 23.
Users can now long-press on a message and tap translate to convert it into their preferred language. They can also download selected languages to save for future translations. The option will work in one-on-one chats, groups, and channel updates.
On Android, users will be able to turn on automatic translations for an entire chat thread. This means all incoming messages in that conversation will be instantly translated.
Meta said the feature is designed to protect privacy, as translations happen directly on the user’s device and are not visible to WhatsApp.
For now, Android users will get translations in six languages: English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic. iPhone users will have access to more than 19 languages at launch. More languages will be added gradually.
More than 3 billion people across 180 countries use WhatsApp. Meta hopes this feature will break down language barriers and make it easier for people to connect.
