WhatsApp could soon integrate Google’s Live Translate into chats

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps, connecting billions of people around the world. Given its status as the default messaging app in many parts of the world, users from different countries often rely on it to communicate. To bridge language gaps and simplify online connections, WhatsApp is developing an in-app translation feature for its Android client.

As discovered by WABetaInfoWhatsApp is planning to integrate Google’s Live Translate feature into chats. If this comes to fruition, users will be able to translate foreign texts without having to switch between apps.

For those unaware, Live Translate uses on-device processing and does not send personal data to Google’s cloud. So, once a user has downloaded the required language pack, the translation feature should work offline. WABetaInfo notes, however, that this tool may be limited to certain languages ​​initially, such as Hindi and English.

Given that Google Live Translate is currently exclusive to select Pixel devices, WhatsApp’s translation feature might not be available on all Android phones. It’s also possible that Google will expand the feature’s availability to more platforms or strike a one-off deal with Meta. Ultimately, the feature is still in development, and it’s too early to determine its specifics or whether it will be released to the public.

With Apple just launching an API for its Translate app, WhatsApp could easily integrate a similar feature into its iOS client. However, no relevant reference has been spotted in the iPhone app yet, and it’s unclear whether this particular addition is on the company’s roadmap.