Google Translate brings real-time translation to any headphones with Gemini AI for 70 languages

Google Turns Ordinary Headphones into Instant Language Interpreters

Google is taking on Apple's Live Translation feature with its own live speech-to-speech translations, and Google's version doesn't require users to use a specific set of headphones. The new Translate app, currently rolling out in beta, provides users with real-time translation in their preferred language when they tap "Live Translate." The function, now usable on any headset, was only previously available on Pixel Buds. Don't miss any of our unbiased tech content and lab-based reviews. Add CNET as a preferred Google source. The Translate Android app update is rolling out in the US, Mexico, and India, and it supports more than 70 languages. The company says it will bring the feature to iOS, and more countries, in 2026. In addition, the company announced it was improving translation quality using Gemini, Google's AI model, and said that idioms, in particular, were no longer literal translations, but more contextual. Google said that it was also expanding the language learning tools with more feedback and daily challenges. Meanwhile, as part of iOS 26, Apple recently introduced Live Translation, but in comparison, the live audio version is currently limited to use with the AirPods Pro or AirPods 4.

Google Translate brings real-time speech translations to any headphones

Google Translate's latest update brings live speech translations, originally available only on the Pixel Buds, to any headphones you want, with support for over 70 languages. It's rolling out today in beta and just requires a compatible Android phone with the Translate app (unlike Apple's similar feature, which requires AirPods). It's one of a few new features coming to Google Translate, along with improved text translations. Using Gemini, Translate will now offer more accurate translations of phrases like idioms and slang, which have a different meaning than what they literally sound like word for word, such as the expression "stealing my thunder." Today's update also includes an expansion of the Practice feature in Translate, bringing it to 20 new countries and adding more supported languages. The Practice feature, which launched in beta in August, is a bit like Duolingo, but baked into Google Translate. It uses AI to make customized language learning sessions based on your skill level, including vocabulary practice and listening comprehension. Live speech-to-speech translation is rolling out today in the US, Mexico, and India on Android and will make its way over to the iOS Translate app next year. Improved text translations are rolling out today in the US and Mexico on both the Android and iOS Translate apps, as well as on the web version of Translate. Practice is still a beta feature in Translate, so it may not be available to everyone yet.

Your earbuds can translate 70 languages in real-time now, thanks to Gemini

Android users can try it now, with iOS support coming next year. If you find yourself in a situation where you need conversations around you translated to your language but don't want to purchase dedicated AI translation earbuds (which our own Jack Wallen recently tested and called "seriously impressive"), the Google Translate app has a new feature you'll want to check out. Starting today for Android phones, Google says you can now hear real-time foreign language translation from the Translate app right in your headphones, thanks to Gemini's new live speech-to-speech translation capabilities. Also: Are voice translation earbuds actually viable in public? I tested some, here's my advice The feature works with any headphones and supports more than 70 languages. Google will add support for iOS and more countries next year. While the Translate app does have an existing feature that translates a conversation live, this new option preserves the tone, emphasis, and cadence of each speaker. This means it's much more natural-sounding, Google explained, and makes it easier to follow a conversation. Also: You can send live video to 911 from your Android phone in seconds now - here's how Google added that Translate will use Gemini's capabilities to better handle phrases with nuanced meanings, idioms, local expressions, or slang. For example, if someone says a phrase like "stealing my thunder," you'll get a helpful translation that says what the phrase really means instead of a literal word-for-word translation. To use this option, open the Translate app and tap "Live translate" while you're connected to your earbuds or headphones. In addition, Google revealed that it's expanding its language learning tools in Translate. Feedback is improved, so you can get helpful tips based on your speaking practice, and you can track how many days in a row you've been learning so you can see your progress. Also: Gemini vs. Copilot: I tested the AI tools on 7 everyday tasks, and it wasn't even close The app also has expanded language training, including English to German and Portuguese, and Bengali, Mandarin Chinese (Simplified), Dutch, German, Hindi, Italian, Romanian, and Swedish to English.

Google Translate Gets Fresh AI Model, Headphones Live Translation...

We may earn a commission when you click links to retailers and purchase goods. More info. Google announced upgrades for Google Translate this morning, bringing in a new AI model for, "smarter and more natural text translations," plus a new beta for any set of headphones to support live one-way translation, and new language support for the language learning tool. The new AI model will offer state-of-the-art translation quality, with more natural and accurate text translations. This will help when attempting to pick up on nuanced meanings like idioms and slang. Google says this update will be available starting tomorrow in the US and will support nearly 20 languages at launch. This same model is also rolling out to Google Search, so that's neat. Google also announced a new beta experience that enables the ability to hear real-time translations in your headphones, turning any pair into a one-way translation device. "Building on Gemini's new live speech-to-speech translation capabilities, this new experience works to preserve the tone, emphasis, and cadence of each speaker to create more natural translations and make it easier to follow along," the company detailed. This beta will begin tomorrow and interested users can sign up via the Translate app on Android devices. iOS users will have access in 2026. Lastly, Google is expanding its language learning tool to nearly 20 countries, including Germany, Sweden, India, and Taiwan.