Meta-owned WhatsApp is currently testing an innovative feature that allows users to translate messages directly within the app, as reported by WABetaInfo, a reliable source for upcoming app features. This new functionality is designed to perform translations locally on the device, ensuring data privacy by avoiding transmission to external servers. Speculations suggest that the feature may leverage Google’s advanced live translation technology.
The live translation capability was first spotted in the beta version 2.24.15.8 of WhatsApp for Android. Initially, users will need to download language packs to utilize this feature, with English and Hindi being the initial supported languages. More languages are expected to be added in subsequent updates. The feature is seamlessly integrated into chat interfaces, allowing users to translate messages without leaving the app.
WABetaInfo highlighted that this translation feature is currently in its early developmental stages and is not yet available to all beta testers. Even users enrolled in the Google Play Beta program with the latest beta version may not have access to it at this time.
In addition to message translation, WhatsApp is reportedly developing a feature to transcribe voice messages. This feature would enable users to convert voice messages into text format. According to reports, a new banner may appear below voice messages, offering users the option to obtain a transcription.
The voice message transcription feature was observed in the beta version 2.24.15.5 of WhatsApp for Android and is reportedly accessible to some beta testers. Both the message translation and voice message transcription features are currently undergoing testing, and there is no specific timeline for their broader release to all users.
These developments underscore WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience by integrating advanced language tools directly into its platform. By enabling on-device translation and voice message transcription, WhatsApp aims to offer more seamless and privacy-focused communication options for its global user base. As these features undergo further refinement and testing, users can anticipate future updates that will potentially broaden the accessibility and functionality of these innovative tools.