WhatsApp is rolling out a new update that brings a suite of new features designed to make communication more seamless and private. The new additions, which include a highly anticipated translation feature, are set to enhance the user experience by breaking down language barriers and introducing welcome quality-of-life improvements.
The centerpiece of the update is the new in-app message translation feature. It allows users to translate text messages directly within chats, groups, and channels without having to copy and paste them into a third-party application. To use it, a user simply long-presses a message and taps “Translate” from the context menu. All translations occur on the user’s device, ensuring that the content remains private and is not sent to any external servers. This maintains the app’s end-to-end encryption.
While the feature is rolling out to both Android and iOS, there are key differences in functionality. Android users get an exclusive automatic translation feature for entire chat threads, which translates future incoming messages instantly. At launch, however, iOS users have access to a wider selection of languages (over 19), compared to Android users who are limited to six languages, including English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian, and Arabic. More languages are expected to be added for both platforms in future updates.
Beyond the translation feature, the update also brings a few other useful additions. A new feature allows users to mute call-outs when a chat group uses the “@everyone” command, which helps to reduce unnecessary notifications and clutter. Additionally, WhatsApp is also rolling out an AI-powered “Writing Help” feature that will assist users in refining their message’s tone and style.
The rollout of these new features is happening gradually, so not all users will have access to them immediately. To ensure you receive the updates as soon as they are available, it’s recommended to keep the WhatsApp app updated on your device.
