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WhatsApp is quietly testing a new feature that brings real-time offline translation to its messaging app—starting with Android beta users. As part of its latest update (version 2.25.12.25), users enrolled in the beta program can now access on-device message translation without needing an active internet connection.
The rollout represents a significant step in WhatsApp’s efforts to integrate smarter AI-powered features into its platform while maintaining its long-standing focus on privacy and user control.
Translation Without the Internet
The standout aspect of this update is the ability to translate messages directly on your device, without relying on cloud-based services. This is made possible through downloadable language packs, which once installed, enable users to translate incoming messages in real time, regardless of connectivity.
This is a meaningful upgrade for users who have multilingual conversations, especially in areas with limited or expensive internet access. It enhances WhatsApp’s accessibility and usability as a global communication tool.
How It Works
WhatsApp offers two modes for translation:
- Automatic Translation per Chat: Users can enable this from the individual chat’s info screen. Once activated, WhatsApp will automatically translate all incoming messages in that conversation based on the installed language pack.
- Manual Message Translation: Users can long-press on any message and select the “Translate” option from the context menu. This is useful for occasional translations or when users don’t want automatic translations turned on.
To use either mode, users must first download the relevant language pack. A separate pack is available for automatic language detection, allowing WhatsApp to identify and translate messages written in multiple languages.
Languages Currently Supported
At launch, the offline translation feature supports five major languages:
- Spanish
- Arabic
- Portuguese (Brazil)
- Hindi
- Russian
WhatsApp is expected to expand the list of supported languages as the feature matures and user feedback is incorporated.
Powered by Meta AI
The technology behind WhatsApp’s new translation tool is believed to be powered by Meta AI, reflecting the parent company’s increasing investment in building AI features directly into its suite of apps. Unlike cloud-based services like Google Translate, WhatsApp’s on-device translation relies on lightweight models optimized for speed, privacy, and local processing.
While the accuracy may not match cloud-powered tools, the tradeoff brings benefits: faster translation, zero data usage, and improved message confidentiality. Meta has also added a feedback mechanism, allowing users to report translation errors, which will help fine-tune the system over time.
Integration With Channels
WhatsApp will also extend the translation functionality to WhatsApp Channels, a feature that allows organizations, media, and influencers to broadcast messages to large audiences. With translation support, channel content can reach broader demographics without language barriers, all while maintaining on-device privacy protections.
Gradual Rollout
The feature is currently in beta and available only to a limited number of Android users. However, Meta has indicated that it will roll out to more testers over the coming weeks and potentially to iOS users in the near future.
