Google is taking on Apple's Live Translation feature with its own live speech-to-speech translations, and Google's version doesn't require a specific set of headphones.
The new Translate app, currently rolling out in beta, provides you with real-time translation in your preferred language when you 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 the live audio version is currently limited to use with the AirPods Pro or AirPods 4.