WhatsApp has introduced a translation feature for chat messages and channel updates, now available to select Android beta users with version 2.25.12.25. This feature supports translations for Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese, Hindi, and Russian, requiring users to download relevant language packs. Translations occur on-device without internet access, with options for automatic detection of incoming messages. Users can enable translations in the chat info screen on a per-chat basis. However, while convenient, the translations may not match the accuracy of cloud-based services. Feedback on translations can be provided without sharing the original messages with Meta.
WhatsApp has been developing a translation feature for chat messages and channel updates since last year, and it is now accessible to select Android users participating in the beta program.
As reported by WABetaInfo, this translation functionality is currently available to users with the beta version 2.25.12.25 of WhatsApp for Android, with plans to roll out to more beta users in the upcoming weeks.
This feature allows for the translation of Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese, Hindi, and Russian languages. Since the translation occurs on-device without needing an active internet connection, users must download a language pack for the specific language they wish to translate. Alternatively, users can opt for a pack that automatically detects the language of incoming messages and translates them accordingly.
The option to enable translation can be found in the chat info screen, where users can select the language they want messages to be automatically translated from. This setting can be adjusted on a per-chat basis for both private and group chats. Users who prefer not to have messages translated automatically can manually translate them by accessing the message options and selecting “Translate.”
However, it’s essential to note that WhatsApp’s translation may not be as precise as those provided by cloud-based services, as the translations are conducted on-device using lightweight language packs. Consequently, WhatsApp allows users to submit feedback for improving translation quality without transmitting the original and translated messages to Meta.
If you’re using the beta version of WhatsApp for Android and have access to this translation feature, we’d love to hear about your experience so far.
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