March 25, 2026 | 09:48 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The messaging app WhatsApp is reported to be developing an automatic translation feature to facilitate cross-language communication, both in private chats and groups. This feature will allow messages to be translated directly without the need for manual selection by users.
Previously, WABetaInfo reports revealed that the WhatsApp update for iOS 25.28.74 includes the ability to manually translate messages. In that version, users could select a message or channel update to view its translation into about 20 languages, with the process still maintaining end-to-end encryption as it uses Apple's API locally.
According to WABetaInfo on March 20, 2026, WhatsApp is now attempting to simplify the process. In the latest beta version iOS 26.11.10.70 available through TestFlight, it was found that WhatsApp is developing a feature that can automatically translate messages into up to 21 languages.
Currently, WhatsApp users still have to select a message and tap the "Translate" option to see the translation results. This mechanism is considered to provide full control, but it can be less practical if there are many messages that need to be translated at once.
Through the new feature being developed, users will be able to activate the automatic translation option through the chat info screen, including specifying the source and target languages. Once activated, the application will immediately display the translation when a message is received, without the need for additional interaction.
To maintain privacy, the translation process is still done locally on the device. Users need to download language packs so that the translation can run instantly without relying on an internet connection. With this approach, messages do not need to be sent to third parties, thus remaining secure in the end-to-end encryption scheme.
However, there are limitations to using it in groups. The automatic translation feature will only function if all group members send messages in the same language. If there are language differences in the conversation, the system will not translate the messages even if the language is supported.
This feature is still under development and is scheduled to be included in upcoming updates on iOS.
Read: WhatsApp to Launch Premium 'WhatsApp Plus' Subscription
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Meta Reportedly Planning Another Wave of Layoffs
7 hari lalu
Meta is reportedly preparing to lay off 20 percent of its 79,000 employees as executives begin planning for a new wave of staff reductions in 2026.
WhatsApp to Launch Premium 'WhatsApp Plus' Subscription
18 hari lalu
The subscription feature will be called WhatsApp Plus, which offers a number of additional customization options.
WhatsApp to Add Long-Awaited Scheduled Message Feature
27 hari lalu
Tech company Meta is preparing a scheduled messaging feature for WhatsApp, one of the most requested features by users.
Russia Blocks YouTube and WhatsApp
40 hari lalu
More websites and messaging apps are blocked in Russia, leaving users to find workarounds and question the future of the internet.
Russia Moves to Block WhatsApp, Pushes State-Backed rival
40 hari lalu
WhatsApp says Russia has tried to block the app in an attempt to steer users toward a state-backed "national messenger."
Russia Threatens Full Ban on WhatsApp, Promotes State-Backed MAX
3 Desember 2025
Roskomnadzor, the Russian communication regulatory body, is threatening to ban WhatsApp amid increasing digital control by the Kremlin and the massive promotion of the MAX application.
OpenAI Says ChatGPT Will Stop Working on WhatsApp by January 2026
22 Oktober 2025
The tech firm OpenAI has announced that ChatGPT will no longer be available on the WhatsApp messaging app as of January 15, 2026.
Meta Adds New Anti-Fraud Features on WhatsApp, Messenger to Protect Older Users
22 Oktober 2025
In the first half of 2025, Meta claims to have detected and stopped 8 million accounts involved in fraud. The elderly are often the target.
Massive Amazon Web Services Outage Cripples Major Global Platforms
21 Oktober 2025
A massive Amazon Web Services (AWS) outage disrupted global internet services, affecting major apps like Snapchat, Reddit, and Alexa.
WhatsApp Introduces AI Message Summary Feature for Indonesian Users
15 Oktober 2025
WhatsApp has officially launched its Message Summary feature in Indonesia, offering users an easier way to catch up on missed conversations.
