WhatsApp’s new Message Translations feature is now live, helping users break language barriers and communicate more freely across the world.
TLDR:
- WhatsApp has launched a Message Translations feature for Android and iOS users.
- It allows users to translate messages in real time across 1:1 chats, groups, and channels.
- Translations happen on-device for privacy, with no data sent to WhatsApp’s servers.
- Android users can enable automatic translations for entire chat threads.
What Happened?
WhatsApp has officially launched a feature that many global users have been waiting for. With Message Translations, users can now translate messages instantly inside the app, making it easier to chat with people who speak different languages. The feature is rolling out gradually to both Android and iPhone users, starting with support for select languages and expanding soon.
we made it happen 😌
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) September 23, 2025
You can now translate messages right in your chats and they are translated on your phone, keeping them end-to-end encrypted (that’s the privacy respecting way to do it, after all) https://t.co/lBlRnCcu9v
How Message Translations Work?
The new feature is designed to make conversations smoother by offering real-time translations within chats. It works across the entire WhatsApp experience including:
- Individual (1:1) conversations
- Group chats
- Channel updates
To use it, you simply long-press any message, tap the new Translate option, and select the language you want to translate to or from. Users can also download language packs for offline and future use.
For Android users, there is an added convenience. They can enable automatic translation for specific chat threads. Once turned on, WhatsApp will automatically translate all future incoming messages in that conversation without needing any further action.
Privacy-Focused Approach
WhatsApp emphasized that the Message Translations feature was built with privacy in mind. All translations happen directly on the user’s device, ensuring that even WhatsApp cannot access the content. This aligns with the company’s broader stance on user privacy and data protection.
According to WhatsApp:
Translations occur on your device where WhatsApp cannot see them.
This means your chats remain secure and private, even when being translated.
Language Support and Rollout
The initial rollout includes six languages for Android users:
- English
- Spanish
- Hindi
- Portuguese
- Russian
- Arabic
On the other hand, iPhone users get access to translations in more than 19 languages right from the start. The exact list of supported languages for iOS has not been disclosed but is expected to cover a wide range of global languages.
Building on AI Features
This new feature comes on the heels of other AI-powered tools added to WhatsApp. One recent addition was Writing Help, which uses Meta AI to provide smart suggestions for message tone and style. It allows users to improve their messages by offering rewrite options tailored to different contexts.
Together, these tools show WhatsApp’s ongoing commitment to improving user communication by blending AI and privacy-first design.
What TechKV Thinks?
I think this is a big win for WhatsApp users around the world. Language barriers are a real issue, especially for people using WhatsApp in cross-cultural conversations, communities, and businesses. The fact that the translations happen on-device is even more impressive. It shows that WhatsApp is serious about keeping our data private while still making the app more useful. The automatic translation on Android is a nice touch and shows thoughtful design. This update isn’t just a small tweak, it’s a meaningful improvement for global communication.
