Feature Overview

Apple introduced a Live Translation function that captures spoken language from a conversation partner, converts it into the user’s preferred language, and plays the translation through the AirPods. The system also displays the translated text on the iPhone, and it allows the user to respond in their own language, which is then rendered back into the partner’s language. The feature is integrated with Apple Intelligence and requires the latest iOS software to operate.

Supported Devices

Although the demonstration highlighted the AirPods Pro 3, Apple clarified that the Live Translation capability is not limited to that model. The feature will function on AirPods Pro 2 and on AirPods 4 models that include active noise cancellation, as both of those earbuds share the H2 chip that powers the translation processing. The standard AirPods 4 without active noise cancellation and the AirPods Max, which rely on the older H1 chip, will not receive the feature.

Software Requirements

To access Live Translation, users must pair their eligible AirPods with an iPhone equipped with Apple Intelligence and running iOS 26 or later. The earbuds must also be updated to the latest firmware that supports the translation functions.

Language Availability

Apple announced that Live Translation is initially available in English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish. The company also indicated that four additional languages—Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese—will be added by the end of the year, expanding the feature’s global reach.

Implications for Users

The rollout of Live Translation across multiple AirPods models enhances the utility of Apple’s wireless earbuds for travelers, business professionals, and anyone needing real‑time language assistance. By leveraging active noise cancellation, the earbuds can isolate the speaker’s voice, replace it with the translated audio, and maintain a seamless conversational flow. This development underscores Apple’s broader strategy of integrating artificial intelligence into its hardware ecosystem.

Future Outlook

As Apple continues to refine its AI capabilities, the Live Translation feature may see further improvements in accuracy, speed, and language coverage. The inclusion of additional languages later in the year suggests an ongoing commitment to expanding the service. Users with compatible AirPods can expect software updates that enable the feature without needing to purchase new hardware, provided their devices meet the outlined requirements.

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