Apple Launches New AirPods With Instant Translation: How Do They Work?

Just this week, Apple has announced the launch of their AirPods Pro 3, the latest upgrade in the AirPod series.

And whilst there are plenty of new and impressive features to talk about, one of the most impressive was the Live Translation.

With Live Translation, people speaking different languages can communicate instantly – all through their headphones.

But how does it actually work?

 

Live Translation on AirPods: How Does It Work?

 

Imagine you are in a business meeting, or travelling in a new country where you don’t speak the language.

With Live Translation, all you have to do is pop in your AirPods in, speak your native language, and your words are instantly translated into your language of choice.

If the other person is wearing AirPods with Live Translation on, then the words go straight into their ear. It’s basically like having a conversation on the phone, except it’s being translated in real time.

If the other person doesn’t have AirPods in, then the words can be displayed live on an iPhone, creating the translated text automatically.

The technology is powered by Apple Intelligence, allowing the tech to easily translate the words into a new language and share them in the form of sound.

One of the other key features is that noise cancellation is integrated into the tech. This means that the person listening can focus on the translation, without hearing the other person speaking on top.

Importantly, the technology only works on either AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, or the new AirPods 4 and an iPhone running on iOS 26 or later.

 

Which Languages Are Instantly Translated?

 

Currently, Live Translate only works with 5 languages: English, French, German, Portuguese and Spanish.

However, Apple has confirmed that it will be adding more languages by the end of 2025, namely Italian, Japanese, Korean and Chinese.

 

 

Is This Technology As Useful As It Seems?

 

Whilst Live Translation is definitely useful in a sense, some have criticised it for being a tad…well…robotic.

Other have also said that it deters people from actually making the effort to learn a new language. After all, if tech is doing all the work for us, then what incentive do we have to spend the time learning to communicate with others?

As an option, it’s definitely a nice to have, but over-reliance could deter real human connection.

 

Who Could Benefit Most From Live Translation?

 

Whilst it is true that this kind of technology could deter people from learning a new language, it is definitely useful for:

• Travellers and tourists who may need to ask for directions, speak to doctors, find out information or communicate with locals.
• Doctors working in cities with diverse populations, where not everyone will speak the native language. This can allow more easy conversations and flow between doctor and patient.
• Business people, especially those working in global teams. Live translation helps them communicate better and faster, helping projects along.
• Expats or international students who have recently moved abroad may need a little help whilst they learn the local language.

 

Is Live Translation That New?

 

Not really. Voice-enabled translation apps have existed for a while, and Apple’s translation app currently allows users to speak, record or even capture images and have them instantly translated.

However, what is new, is the ability to wear AirPods and have face to face conversations, without needing to hold up the phone. This creates easier conversation on both ends, making it more practical and user friendly.

 

Apple’s New Tech: Help Or Hindrance?

 

Live Translation may not replace learning another language, but it can make communication a lot easier.

As Apple rolls out more languages and more devices to support the tech, this could be the next step in improving communication worldwide. We will be watching closely!