Google Translate tests AI-powered feature to offer multiple translation choices

Google Translate wants to give you more control with alternative translations

Google could introduce this option alongside the "Understand" and "Ask" buttons we saw earlier. Many of us have spent the last couple years learning that modern AI does some things a whole lot better than others. While it sometimes misreports facts, "hallucinating" details, it tends to do a pretty decent job at stringing a few words together -- even incorrect results don't end up sounding like gibberish. That makes translation a pretty obvious target for AI's skill set, and today we've spotted what looks like some new AI-powered functionality Google's working on for its Translate app.

Google Translate May Soon Offer Multiple Translation Choices - Phandroid

Google Translate is testing a "Show alternatives" button that could change how you handle tricky translations. Android Authority uncovered the feature in app version 10.0.36, and it delivers up to three AI-generated variants with slight tweaks in meaning, formality, or phrasing. This builds on Google's recent Gemini AI integration for smarter, more natural translations. The Google Translate alternatives feature is AI-powered, likely using Gemini to handle context like casual versus formal speech. This is especially handy for languages with honorifics like Japanese, Korean, and French, or idioms where one translation falls flat. Instead of settling for a single word-for-word swap, you can pick the option that fits your specific situation. The feature appears alongside other tests like "Understand" for context explanations and "Ask" for follow-ups. There's no official rollout date yet, but the strings and flags are already active in the app. Expect it to arrive soon via a Play Store update for both Android and iOS. The feature works offline and on-device where possible for privacy, continuing Google's push for better AI features in Translate. This might come in useful for translating a business email or travel phrase. You can pick formal or polite options to avoid awkwardness. For example, "hello" as casual chitchat versus an executive greeting makes a huge difference. This moves Google Translate from literal translations to contextual understanding, similar to how DeepL handles alternatives. For casual users, this means quick fixes when translations sound off. For professionals handling emails or business chats, it's a formality slider that reduces "lost in translation" mishaps. The feature pairs nicely with Google Translate's Practice mode for language learning, edging into Duolingo territory. It's a free upgrade that's particularly useful in multilingual regions for switching between languages in apps and messaging platforms.