Meta-owned messaging app WhatsApp has started rolling out its much-awaited chat and channel translation feature to a limited number of Android users enrolled in its beta program.
As first reported by WABetaInfo, this feature is currently accessible to users on beta version 2.25.12.25, with a wider rollout expected in the near future.
The new feature enables users to translate messages in languages such as Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese, Hindi, and Russian directly within the app. A major advantage is that the translation works on-device, meaning it remains functional even without an internet connection.
To use the feature, WhatsApp users must download specific language packs—either individually or a pack capable of detecting and translating multiple languages at once.
The translation toggle can be found in the chat info screen and must be enabled per chat, whether it’s a private or group conversation.
Manual translation is also available by long-pressing a message and tapping the “Translate” option.
Although the accuracy may not be on par with cloud-based translation services due to WhatsApp’s use of lightweight language packs, users can provide feedback to help refine the tool.
Importantly, WhatsApp ensures that message content is not sent to Meta when submitting feedback, preserving user privacy.
Beta users who have received the update are encouraged to share their experiences and contribute to improving the feature.
Tags
Tech