iOS 26 beta code is now suggesting a cool new feature coming to Apple's AirPods: Live Translation.
As early as March 2025, the feature was rumored for AirPods. Basically, as the name suggests, this feature would allow for the AirPods to translate in-person conversations from one language to another. Back in June, Apple announced Live Translation, but it has still not made its way to AirPods.
Right now, Live Translation works in calls and Messages on iPhones that support Apple Intelligence. AirPods, however, still can't translate real-world conversations, and Apple has not announced that this feature will be available on AirPods just yet.
A newly discovered gesture suggests that Apple may be working on adding Live Translation to the AirPods Pro 2 and the AirPods 4. The gesture was discovered in iOS 26's sixth beta. It is a new system asset, with a gesture activated by pressing both AirPod stems simultaneously.
Previously, the AirPods Pro 2 gained Hearing Health features, including hearing aid and hearing test functionality that was approved by the FDA.
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The AirPods Pro 2. | Image Credit - PhoneArena
If this hint turns out right and Apple does include Live Translation for AirPods, it will probably only be available with iPhones that already support it. For example, an iPhone 15 Pro or newer, basically, those that support Apple Intelligence. Likely, this also includes iPads that support it, or Macs with M1 or newer Apple Silicon chip.
Would you use AirPods with live translation?
Absolutely, that would be a game-changer
75%
Maybe, if it works smoothly and accurately
12.5%
No, I don’t see myself needing it
6.25%
I don’t use AirPods
6.25%
16 Votes
Apple's Translate app currently has a conversation feature, but it's way more clunky than what is expected to be the direct translation feature in AirPods.
Meanwhile, Apple's main competitor, Samsung, already has its Live Translate feature, available with One UI 6.1 or later. Google's Pixel Buds also offer the same functionality with a Conversation Mode.
In my opinion, Live Translation on AirPods sounds amazing – especially for someone like me who's fascinated by languages and different cultures. Being able to have real-time conversations without language barriers would open up so many possibilities. If Apple makes it smooth, I'd definitely use it all the time, whether traveling or just chatting with friends from around the world.
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Izzy, a tech enthusiast and a key part of the PhoneArena team, specializes in delivering the latest mobile tech news and finding the best tech deals. Her interests extend to cybersecurity, phone design innovations, and camera capabilities. Outside her professional life, Izzy, a literature master's degree holder, enjoys reading, painting, and learning languages. She's also a personal growth advocate, believing in the power of experience and gratitude. Whether it's walking her Chihuahua or singing her heart out, Izzy embraces life with passion and curiosity.
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