The latest WhatsApp update introduces the option to translate messages without leaving the chat, natively and accessible from every conversation. The feature is gradually arriving on both Android and iPhone—on iOS it's tied to the latest version. 25.28.74—, so its availability may take a while a few days or weeks depending on the device.
With this tool, keep up with the conversation with contacts who write in other languages. it is simpler and more direct. In addition, it is possible to download language packs to use it Without connection and the entire process respects end-to-end encryption, without resorting to external translators or copying and pasting texts.
How it is activated and where it appears
On iPhone, the translation is found within the context menu of the message: just hold down any text in the conversation, tap “More” and choose "Translate"The system automatically recognizes the language of the content and, if necessary, allows you to manually indicate the language. Source language to fine-tune the result.
On Android, the shortcut appears at press and hold the message or in the three-dot menu at the top. In certain cases, in addition to translating individual messages, you can activate automatic translation for a specific chat, so that new texts from the contact are converted to the preferred language without extra steps.
- Opens a chat and select the message you want to translate.
- On iOS, tap "More" and then “Translate.” On Android, look for the option in the menu or top bar.
- If it's your first time, choose source and target language and confirm the download of the corresponding package.
Once the packages are downloaded, the translation works. even offlineYou can manage languages in Settings > Translate > Downloaded Languages, add new ones or delete ones you no longer use. It is advisable to have a good connection during the initial download and free space to store dictionaries.
The iOS update that enables this feature also adds the Live Photos supportIt doesn't affect the translator, but it's part of the same package of changes that is gradually reaching users.
Available languages, privacy and limits
On iOS, WhatsApp allows you to translate messages in 21 languages relying on Apple's translation APIs. The list may vary depending on the system version, but includes widely used options to cover most everyday scenarios. without leaving the app.
- Arab
- Chinese (Mandarin, Simplified)
- Chinese (Mandarin, Traditional)
- Dutch
- English United Kingdom)
- English United States)
- French
- German
- Hindi
- Indonesian
- Italian
- Japanese
- Korean
- Polish
- Portuguese (Brazil)
- Russian
- Spanish
- Thai
- Turkish
- Ukrainian
- Vietnamese
On Android, the feature is already operational and offers translation of the most widely spoken languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, Hindi, Russian, and Arabic. Additionally, on that platform there is the option to translate automatically new chat interventions, which avoids going message by message.
Meta emphasizes that processing is done on the device itself, preserving end-to-end encryption and without sending the content of the messages to their servers. This way, the integrated translation maintains the privacy and reduces the need for third-party tools.
- Only converts text: Does not translate locations, documents, contacts, stickers, or GIFs.
- The “Translate” button appears in individual chats, groups and channels when the content is compatible.
- Good connection is required for the first download of packages; then it can be used offline.
With this launch, WhatsApp takes a practical step to eliminate language barriers within the app itself: gradual activation, easy long-press use, language packs for offline operation, and controls that put the privacy first while conversing with people who write in other languages.
