WhatsApp Tests On-Device 'Translate Messages' Feature in Beta: Privacy-Preserving Real-Time Translation Coming Soon

WhatsApp’s latest beta reveals an offline, real-time message translation tool designed to enhance multilingual communication while maintaining end-to-end privacy.

WhatsApp Introduces ‘Translate Messages’ in Android Beta

WhatsApp is rolling out a powerful new feature in its Android beta version 2.25.12.25 — the ‘Translate Messages’ tool, which allows users to translate incoming messages in real time without sending data outside their devices. This development marks a significant step in the app’s efforts to bolster multilingual communication while preserving user privacy.

The translation feature, first identified by WABetaInfo, is currently available to select beta testers and is accessed via the Chat Lock settings within individual chats or channels. Once activated, users can download specific language packs and enjoy seamless translation of messages, either automatically or manually through a newly introduced Translate button.

On-Device Translation with Full Privacy

What sets WhatsApp’s translation feature apart is its offline functionality. Unlike traditional translation tools that rely on cloud processing, all translations are handled locally using on-device resources. This means user messages remain private and never leave the device, reinforcing WhatsApp’s commitment to end-to-end encryption and secure messaging.

Initially, the feature supports five languages: Spanish, Arabic, Brazilian Portuguese, Hindi, and Russian. Users can manage or remove downloaded language packs at any time, and the translation setting can be customized per conversation—allowing full control over when and how translations occur.

This feature builds on WhatsApp’s earlier on-device voice transcription tool and reflects a broader strategy to integrate more AI-enhanced, privacy-centric functionalities into the messaging platform.

Enhanced User Experience Across the Board

In addition to the Translate Messages feature, WhatsApp has recently rolled out a series of updates aimed at refining user interaction. These include:

• Real-time “Online” indicator in group chats to show which members are active

• Improved reactions, events, and calling features across both Android and iOS

• Enhancements to Channels, making it easier for users to discover and follow public conversations

The ‘Translate Messages’ feature is currently in limited testing, but a global rollout is expected in the coming weeks. WhatsApp’s consistent push toward secure, smarter communication tools signals a strong commitment to staying ahead in the messaging space while respecting user autonomy.