WhatsApp Rolls Out Message Translations Feature

WhatsApp has officially unveiled a long-anticipated feature: Message Translations. This addition aims to make cross-language communication smoother for its billions of users across the globe.

With international groups, family chats, and professional discussions often blending multiple languages, the update promises to remove one of the biggest barriers in digital conversations.

The feature works across 1:1 chats, group conversations, and even Channels. Users can long-press a message, tap “Translate,” and instantly see the text converted into their chosen language. On Android, there’s an extra convenience: users can enable automatic translation for all future messages in a particular thread. This means incoming foreign-language messages will be translated in real-time without additional taps.

Importantly, WhatsApp claims all translations happen directly on-device. According to the company, this ensures that even Meta cannot access the translated text, a reassurance aimed at users who are concerned about privacy. Skepticism remains, however, as some argue that Meta’s involvement in messaging inevitably raises trust issues, regardless of encryption claims. Supporters counter that end-to-end encryption and device-level processing still provide better safeguards than SMS or less secure platforms.

The rollout is staggered. Android users will initially get support for English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic, while iPhone owners will see translations available in more than 19 languages right from launch. WhatsApp says more languages will gradually be added, expanding the reach of the feature further.

While some critics note that rival apps like Telegram and WeChat offered translation years ago, WhatsApp’s approach of integrating device-based translations could set a higher standard. Others point out that this development makes the feature accessible even on phones without advanced built-in AI, broadening inclusivity. Whether you view it as WhatsApp finally catching up or as a meaningful step forward, it’s clear that the way we chat across borders is changing.