Google Translate enables real-time translation across all headphones

Google has updated its Translate app with one of its most useful features yet — real-time speech translation through any pair of headphones. The feature, which was previously limited to Pixel Buds, is now available in beta to anyone with a compatible Android phone and the Google Translate app installed. More than 70 languages are supported, and Google says it doesn’t require any special headphones or hardware, a major difference from Apple’s AirPods.

The new feature allows users to listen to the translation of their speech directly in their headphones while the other person speaks in a foreign language. The translation takes place in real time, making it much easier to communicate in everyday situations, such as when traveling, working, or communicating informally. Google is expanding one of its most recognizable language tools from a text-based to a fully conversational context.

In addition to real-time speech translation, Google has also improved the quality of text translations. With the help of the Gemini model, the app now better understands idioms, slang, and phrases whose meaning is not literally clear from individual words. Expressions like "stealing my thunder" will now be translated according to their actual meaning, not just literally, which has been one of the major shortcomings of machine translation in the past.

The update also includes an expansion of the Practice feature, which was first introduced last August. It’s a built-in learning tool that’s similar to language learning apps like Duolingo in terms of adaptive learning, but works directly within Google Translate. Practice uses artificial intelligence to tailor exercises based on the user’s knowledge, including vocabulary, speech comprehension, and listening exercises. The feature is now available in 20 new countries and supports more languages, though it remains in beta.

Real-time speech translation is already rolling out in the US, Mexico and India on Android devices, and is expected to be available in the Translate app for iOS next year. Improved text translations are already available in the US and Mexico on both Android and iOS, as well as on the web. As some of the new features are still in beta, they may not be available to all users yet.