This upcoming WhatsApp feature will automatically translate messages for you

WhatsApp has recently been introducing several features which ensure you don’t have to switch between apps to get tasks done anymore. Whether it is screen sharing with your contacts, sharing your live location or even the inclusion of Meta AI, which has now opened up doors of possibility for users, there’s a lot the platform is equipped to do.

In more recent news, WhatsApp seems to be working on a feature that will allow it to translate messages within your chat. The feature, which was spotted by WABetainfo, is currently being tested with a limited set of users. Here’s everything we know so far.

WhatsApp translation feature: What is it and how it will work

According to the report, the translation feature will allow you to easily select and translate incoming messages on your chat. It also suggests that there might be an automatic translation option on the cards. However, it further states that users may have to download additional language packs in case the language they wish to translate, is not included in WhatsApp’s initial pack.

Once the feature finishes translating, it will replace the original text in the chat bubble with the translated text. However, the report suggests that the new text will come with a clear label indicating it is translated. It further states how this is added to bring in a clear differentiation between translated and original text. It is also expected to minimise confusion or misunderstanding that could be caused due to direct translation of a regional language.

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Lastly, the report suggests that initial support will be limited to languages such as English, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, and Hindi. That said, the platform may eventually introduce more languages to this set.

WhatsApp translation feature: When will it be available to everyone?

The feature is currently being tested, which means it is challenging to tell when or if it will be available for a larger audience. However, for any more developments, you can always subscribe to Unboxed by Croma.

In other related news, WhatsApp seems to be working at reimagining a new status interface for Android users for a more streamlined experience. It also is reportedly introducing a ‘video note’ mode to its camera, which will allow users to directly record video messages within the camera, instead of holding the camera button within the smartphone app.