Meta has rolled out a new translation feature on WhatsApp to make cross-language communication easier for its over 3 billion users worldwide. The feature, which began rolling out on Tuesday, allows users to translate messages directly within chats by long-pressing any message and selecting “Translate.” It works in one-on-one conversations, group chats, and Channel updates.
Android users will initially have access to six languages—English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic—while iPhone users will start with more than 19 languages. WhatsApp said translations take place on the user’s device, ensuring privacy and compliance with the platform’s end-to-end encryption.
“Message translations were designed to protect the privacy of your chats. That’s why translations occur on your device where WhatsApp cannot see them,” Meta said in a statement.
The new feature is expected to be particularly useful in regions with diverse languages, helping to break down communication barriers. It also marks WhatsApp’s latest step in expanding beyond messaging into a more inclusive communication platform. Earlier in June, Meta introduced tools such as Channel Subscriptions, Promoted Channels, and Ads in Status as part of its strategy to help creators, organizations, and businesses grow and monetize content on the app.
