WhatsApp may soon be able to translate chat messages into your preferred language

WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature that will allow users to translate chat messages into their preferred language directly on their devices.

In Short

• WhatsApp is reportedly working on a translation feature
• This feature might allow users to enable translation without the internet
• The feature is currently under development

Are you someone who wishes for a translation feature on WhatsApp? This seems to be a much-anticipated feature, given that WhatsApp is one of the most used instant messaging apps globally, with billions of users. Hence to help its diverse user base connect more smoothly, WhatsApp is reportedly developing a new feature that will automatically translate chat messages and channel updates.

According to WABetaInfo, which spotted this reportedly upcoming feature, WhatsApp is developing this feature to improve communication across languages. it is currently in beta testing with version 2.24.26.9 for Android. The feature is designed to help users break language barriers seamlessly without compromising their privacy or security.

Detailing how the feature works, WABetaInfo reveals that the translation process occurs entirely on the user’s device, adhering to WhatsApp’s promise of end-to-end encryption. Unlike traditional translation tools that send data to cloud servers, this feature uses pre-downloaded language packs, ensuring no data is shared with third-party services or even WhatsApp servers.

How translation on WhatsApp works

While still under development, once available, users will have the option to download the necessary language pack for offline use. Once installed, users will be able to enable translations locally, even without an active internet connection. This approach of offline translation will offer users more privacy while allowing users to access translations anytime, anywhere.

Additionally, users will be able to decide whether to translate specific messages manually or enable automatic translations for all new messages and channel updates. This option will make the feature adaptable for both casual conversations and formal communication across languages.

According to the report, by processing translations offline, WhatsApp aims to ensure data security and user privacy. However, there are certain trade-offs. WABetaInfo notes that offline translations may not always be perfectly accurate, as they rely on pre-downloaded language packs rather than real-time updates from external translation engines. While the translations are expected to be indicative and helpful for understanding, users might face occasional inaccuracies.

However, despite these limitations, this feature will allow users to connect and enable cross-language communication. It will simplify conversations between users speaking different languages, whether for personal or professional purposes.

As for the availability, the feature is still under development, with no official release date announced. It will likely roll out in a future update to WhatsApp’s stable version after further refinements and testing. For now, beta testers can explore the initial implementation and provide feedback to improve its performance.