Apple’s new Live Translation in AirPods aims to make in-ear, real-time speech translation possible without needing a phone for every conversation.
Apple is introducing a groundbreaking feature: Live Translation in its AirPods lineup. Starting with AirPods Pro 3, and following to selected older models, this function enables spoken language translation in real time, placing translation directly into the user’s ear. It’s meant to make communication smoother across language barriers without needing to pull out your phone.
Here’s what we know so far about how it works, which devices support it, and why it matters:
How the Translation Works
When turned on, the AirPods’ microphones pick up speech from someone speaking in another language. The speech is processed via the paired iPhone (running iOS 26 or later, with Apple Intelligence enabled) and translated live. A transcript of the other speaker’s words appears on the user’s device. Activation can be done by holding both stems of the AirPods for a brief moment.
Compatible Devices & Language Support
- Initially, the feature will come built into AirPods Pro 3.
- Older models (AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation) will also support it.
- Launch languages include English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish. More are expected by end of year—likely Italian, Japanese, Korean, and simplified Chinese.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
- As of now, Live Translation is not available in many European countries, even if the languages are supported, due to regulatory and compliance issues tied to regional laws.
- Translation is good for casual or conversational use, but it may struggle with idiomatic speech, fast or overlapping dialogue, or very noisy environments.
- Users without updated firmware, or older devices without required audio hardware (noise cancellation, etc.), may not get full functionality.
Why This Matters
This feature marks a shift in how we use wearable tech. Instead of just listening to music, taking calls, or using voice assistants, devices like AirPods are becoming tools for overcoming language barriers in real time. That could be especially useful for travel, cross-border business, multicultural households, and more.
For Apple, it strengthens its push into “Apple Intelligence” features—tools that blend hardware, software, and AI to solve real-world communication challenges.
Sources
- TechRadar – AirPods Pro 3 wins me over in less than a week thanks to these key upgrades TechRadar
- Tom’s Guide – AirPods Pro 3 Live Translation — here’s how to use it Tom’s Guide
- The Verge – AirPods Pro 3 review: tripling down on a good thing The Verge
