WhatsApp is rolling out Chat Translate feature to these users: What is it and why it is a good feature for users

WhatsApp

In pursuit of making it easier to use WhatsApp, the instant messaging platform has started testing a new feature called Chat Translate on Android. WABetaInfo has highlighted that this development follows the earlier announcement of WhatsApp’s in-house translation tool, which aims to process all translations on-device while preserving end-to-end encryption and maintaining user privacy

What is the Chat Translate feature on WhatsApp?

The Chat Translate feature enables users to convert messages from one language to another within WhatsApp. It works through downloadable language packs and does not rely on external cloud services. This means messages are not transmitted to Meta servers or third-party platforms, keeping conversations encrypted and private.

The feature is being introduced as part of the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.12.25 update, now available via the Google Play Store. It builds on WhatsApp’s existing voice message transcription technology and uses the same internal system to enable offline translations.

How the translation works on WhatsApp

Once the feature is enabled, users can access translation options from the chat info screen. They can choose a preferred language for translation on a per-chat basis. Alternatively, users can manually translate messages by tapping on the message and selecting “Translate” from the options menu.

WhatsApp also offers a language pack capable of auto-detecting the language used in messages—helpful in multilingual group chats. Once downloaded, these language packs allow real-time translation of messages without requiring an internet connection.

Languages currently supported include Spanish, Arabic, Hindi, Portuguese (Brazil), and Russian. More languages are expected to be added in future updates.

Privacy and user control

All translations are processed locally, ensuring that no message content leaves the device. WhatsApp does not share original or translated messages with Meta, even when users choose to submit feedback on translation quality.

Translation preferences can be updated or disabled at any time through the chat info screen. Downloaded language packs can also be removed via WhatsApp’s storage settings, allowing users to manage their device storage and preferences.

Official rollout

The translation feature is being gradually rolled out to more beta testers over the coming weeks. While it is currently limited to the beta version, a broader rollout is likely depending on user feedback and performance.