Real-Time Translation Brings Sci-Fi to Reality – Coming Soon to iOS Too

Google’s Breakthrough in Real-Time Translation

Google has announced the launch of a beta version of its real-time translation feature through headphones. This new technology will allow users to hear translated speech directly in their earphones, maintaining the original speaker’s voice characteristics.

Furthermore, Google is integrating advanced Gemini capabilities into Google Translate and expanding language learning tools within the Translate app. According to Google’s Vice President of Product Management, Rose Yao, the new feature allows any headphones to become a device for one-way real-time translation.

“Whether it’s a conversation in a different language, listening to a speech, or watching a TV show or movie in another language, you can now put on your headphones, open the Translate app, hit ‘Live translate,’ and hear the real-time translation in your preferred language,” she explained.

Expanding Access and Features

The beta version is already available in the Translate app on Android in the United States, Mexico, and India. The feature works with any headphones and supports over 70 languages. In 2026, the company plans to expand this functionality to iOS and other countries.

The integration of Gemini technologies into Google Translate enables more accurate and natural text translations. Special attention is paid to translating phrases with nuances, such as slang, idioms, and local expressions. For example, when translating the English idiom “stealing my thunder,” users will receive a more precise translation that considers the context rather than a literal translation of each word.

Enhancing Language Learning Tools

Google also broadens its language learning tools by adding nearly 20 new countries, including Germany, India, Sweden, and Taiwan. English learners can now practice German, and speakers of Bengali, Simplified Chinese, Dutch, German, Hindi, Italian, Romanian, and Swedish can practice English.

The company has improved the feedback system, providing users with useful suggestions based on their speaking practice. Additionally, Google has added a feature to track the number of consecutive days engaged in language study, making it easier to monitor progress and maintain consistency.