SAN FRANCISCO: WhatsApp has begun rolling out its new built-in translation feature for iPhone users, weeks after debuting on Android.
The update, part of version 25.28.74, enables users to instantly translate messages in 21 different languages without using external apps.
After installing the update, users can check if the feature is available by pressing and holding a message, selecting “More…”, and tapping “Translate.” The first time the feature is used, WhatsApp will prompt users to choose their source and target languages and download language packs — allowing offline translations once installed.
The downloaded packs can be managed under Settings → Translate → Downloaded Languages, where users can add or remove languages.
According to Meta, the global rollout will take a few weeks to reach all iPhone users.
The tool supports 21 languages, including Arabic, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Dutch, English (UK and US), French, German, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese.
However, WhatsApp notes that language availability may vary depending on the iOS version. The translation feature works for sent and received messages in both personal and group chats, but documents, contacts, locations, stickers, and GIFs cannot be translated.
Meta also advises users to ensure a stable internet connection and sufficient storage space before downloading language packs.
