WhatsApp for Android is reportedly testing a new feature that allows users to translate messages live, using Google’s advanced translation technology. Initially, the feature will support translations between English and Hindi, with plans to expand to additional languages in the future. This development comes from a beta version of the WhatsApp for Android app (2.24.15.8), as noted by a feature tracker.
The live translation feature is designed to work through on-device processing, ensuring that data remains local rather than being sent to a cloud server. Users may need to download specific language packs to utilize this feature. According to the feature tracker WABetaInfo, the translation can happen directly within the chat interface, eliminating the need for users to leave the app to translate messages.
In addition to live translation, WhatsApp for Android is also exploring the ability to transcribe voice messages. This feature would allow users to generate written transcriptions of voice messages they have sent or received. A new banner might appear below a voice message, prompting users to opt for a transcription.
Currently, the live translation feature is in development and not accessible even to beta testers. Therefore, users with the latest version of the WhatsApp for Android beta app through the Google Play Beta program may not be able to test it yet. The same goes for the voice message transcription feature, which is also in the development phase.