Language barriers are getting thinner as Google begins rolling out a new beta feature that lets users hear live translations directly in their headphones. The update also brings advanced Gemini powered intelligence and expanded language learning tools to the Google Translate app.
With the new feature, users can listen to real time translations while keeping the original speaker’s tone, emphasis, and cadence intact. Google says this makes conversations easier to follow and helps listeners understand who is speaking. The experience turns any standard pair of headphones into a one way real time translation tool.
“Whether you’re trying to have a conversation in a different language, listen to a speech or lecture while abroad, or watch a TV show or film in another language, you can now put in your headphones, open the Translate app, tap ‘Live translate’ and hear a real-time translation in your preferred language,” said Rose Yao, Google VP Product Management, Search Verticals, in the official blog post.
The beta version is now rolling out on Android in the United States, Mexico, and India. It works with any headphones and supports more than 70 languages. Google plans to expand the feature to iOS and additional countries in 2026.
Alongside live translations, Google is also introducing advanced Gemini capabilities to Translate. These upgrades aim to deliver smarter and more natural translations, especially for phrases with cultural context such as slang, idioms, and local expressions.
For instance, phrases like “stealing my thunder” will now be translated based on meaning rather than literal words, as Gemini understands the context behind the expression.
This Gemini powered translation update is rolling out in the United States and India. It supports English translations across nearly 20 languages including Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, and German. The feature is available on Android, iOS, and the web.
Google is also expanding its language learning tools to nearly 20 more countries including Germany, India, Sweden, and Taiwan. English speakers can now practice German, while speakers of Bengali, Mandarin Chinese Simplified, Dutch, German, Hindi, Italian, Romanian, and Swedish can practice English.
New feedback tools will offer personalized speaking tips, and a streak tracker will show how many consecutive days users have practiced. This addition brings the experience closer to dedicated language learning apps while staying within Translate.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
