WhatsApp is rolling out a new message translation option in-stream, which will enable users to translate messages into another language direct in their chats, while also keeping those messages on your phone, and end-to-end encrypted, as opposed to processing them through external servers.
Which is an important consideration for WhatsApp users, and given that WhatsApp is the most widely used messaging platform in the world, it could be a major addition to help maximize utility.
As you can see in this screenshot, shared by WA Beta Info a few months back, WhatsApp has been developing its translation process for some time, with a simple process that will enable you to convert your messages into another language.
And now, WhatsApp’s launching the option to all users.
As explained by WhatsApp:
“If you see a message in a different language, you can now simply long-press and tap ‘Translate’. Choose the language you want the message to be translated from or to, and download it to be saved for future translations. This works for 1:1 chats, groups, and Channel updates too.”
So again, rather than referring your message data to an external server, users will be able to download a translation pack to their device, which will enable them to convert the text in-stream.
WhatsApp further notes that Android users will also be able to choose to turn on automatic translation for an entire chat thread, “so that all future incoming messages in that conversation are translated as well.”
It’s a handy update, which could expand the usage of WhatsApp in many regions, and build on its core use case in connecting communities.
And it could also help brands expand their opportunities, by facilitating communication with a much broader audience. So now, you can advertise to other regions, and utilize translations in-stream to facilitate more transactions.
WhatsApp says that it’s rolling out message translations on Android and iPhone from today, beginning with “a few select languages” to start, and more to follow.
“Android users will find it available in six languages: English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic. For our iPhone users, the feature will launch in 19+ languages.” (Full iPhone language listing available here)
WhatsApp also rolled out voice note transcripts last year, which provides another means to communicate in different languages.
