Google has launched its Live Translate feature on the Google Translate app for iOS, enabling users to translate spoken conversations directly through headphones in real time, with support for more than 70 languages, including Thai.
The feature was previously introduced on Android late last year, where its key highlight was the Listening mode. This allows users to instantly hear translated speech through their headphones during live conversations.
Live Translate offers three main modes. In Listening mode, translated audio is played directly into the user’s headphones. Conversation mode outputs translated speech through the device’s speakers, making it suitable for shared interactions. Text Only mode, meanwhile, displays translations purely as on-screen text.
Google said the feature is designed for a variety of real-world uses, ranging from conversations with locals speaking different languages to translating public announcements in places such as airports or train stations.
In addition to basic translation, Live Translate is capable of conveying tone and speech rhythm, making interactions feel more natural and helping users better understand the speaker’s intent and context.
Initial testing, however, indicates a delay of 3-4 seconds. This may cause slower responses when speaking with fast talkers, and some words may be slightly inaccurate.
Despite these limitations, the feature represents a notable step forward in real-time language translation, with further improvements in speed and accuracy expected in future updates.
Source: Blog Google
