Source: Apple
Apple is introducing live translation to its core communication-focused apps with iOS 26. The tech giant announced at WWDC 2025 that it plans to add live translation to calls and texts, leveraging Apple Intelligence. It will be integrated into Messages, Phone, and FaceTime apps.
On-device artificial intelligence models will power live translation. During calls, you'll hear them spoken aloud by an AI voice and written out as captions. Meanwhile, in text messages, the Messages app will automatically translate while you type. According to Apple's Director of Input Experience, Leslie Ikemoto, live translations will be available when the user is interacting with a non-Apple smartphone. But she did not specify which languages would be supported.
iPadOS 26 is also getting access to live translation in these three apps, with automatic translation coming to the group chats on iPads and one-on-one messages. Messages on watchOS 26 will also bring live translation to the Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, if you have an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence.