WhatsApp has started activating its new tool on iPhone integrated message translation, a feature that had previously been released on Android and now allows you to understand conversations in up to 21 different languages without leaving the app.
The novelty comes with the version WhatsApp 25.28.74 for iOS and its rollout is staggered, so it may take a few days for it to appear worldwide. This same release also adds support for Live Photos, according to specialized media outlets such as 9to5Mac and WABetaInfo.
How to enable and use translation in WhatsApp for iOS
To check if it is already available, just hold pressed a message In any chat, tap “More” and select “Translate.” The shortcut appears in the context menu next to the usual conversation actions.
The first time you will have to select the source and target language and authorize the download of the corresponding package. After completing this step, the function can perform translations even No internet connection, provided the packages are installed.
At any time you can manage the packages in Settings > Translate > Downloaded Languages, add new ones or delete ones that are no longer used to free up space on the device.
Available languages and automatic detection
On iOS, WhatsApp enables translation in 21 languages. Specific availability may vary. according iOS version installed on the iPhone, as it relies on Apple system technologies.
- Arab
- Chinese (Mandarin, Simplified)
- Chinese (Mandarin, Traditional)
- Dutch
- English United Kingdom)
- English United States)
- French
- German
- Hindi
- Indonesian
- Italian
- Japanese
- Korean
- Polish
- Portuguese (Brazil)
- Russian
- Spanish
- Thai
- Turkish
- Ukrainian
- Vietnamese
The system recognizes in a way automatically the language of the message, so the translation appears without having to configure it each time; if the detection is not successful, you can manually adjust the source language for a more accurate result.
Privacy, requirements and limits of the function
Meta emphasizes that the translation process is carried out on the iPhone itself, without sending the content to the company's servers, so the content is not altered end-to-end encryption of the chats.
There are certain limitations: The tool only converts text messages and does not translate locations, documents, contacts, stickers, or GIFs. Otherwise, the "Translate" button will not appear.
For a smooth experience it is advisable to have good connection during the initial download of the packages and sufficient storage space, as the necessary dictionary is stored on the device so that the translation works even offline.
Deployment and differences from Android
The function is being activated automatically. progressive on iOS and can be used in both individual and group chats. groups and channels. On Android it debuted weeks earlier and, according to industry sources, it has more extensive automatic translation options, while on iPhone the integration relies on the Apple Translation APIs, which contributes to fast and stable performance.
In addition to translations, this same update adds support for live Photos On iOS, an addition that comes alongside the star feature and rounds out the new features package of version 25.28.74.
With this move, WhatsApp reduces language barriers within the app and offers a solution direct, private and comfortable to understand messages in multiple languages, without resorting to external services and with full control of the installed packages.