CALIFORNIA (Kashmir English): WhatsApp has started rolling out its much-anticipated feature for chat and channel translation to select Android users enrolled in beta program.
The translation clip can be found within the chat information screen.
According to WABetaInfo, at present, the new capability is available to only those using beta version 2.25.12.25, with a larger public rollout likely in the near future.
The update enables users to translate messages written in Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, Hindi, and Russian directly within the app.
On-device translations
A key advantage of the feature is the facility of on-device translations, allowing functionality even without having an internet connection.
However, to utilise the tool, users must first download specific language packs, either individually or as part of a multi-language detection pack.
Once installed, the translation toggle can be found within the chat information screen and can be activated for both group and individual conversations.
Furthermore, users have the option to translate individual messages manually by long-pressing a message and selecting “Translate”.
The meta-owned messaging platform is asking its users to submit feedback to refine the tool given the on-device system may not matching the precision of cloud-based translation services due to its lightweight nature.
Beta testers who have already received the update have been encouraged to share their experiences to help give a boost to the feature ahead of a wider launch.
