Google is launching a new test feature that enables users to receive real-time translation through headphones. The tech giant is also integrating advanced Gemini capabilities into Google Translate and expanding its language learning tools within the app.
The new live headphone translation experience preserves each speaker's tone, accent, and rhythm, making it easier for users to follow conversations and identify who is speaking. According to Google, this feature effectively turns any pair of headphones into a real-time, one-way translation device.
"Whether you're having a conversation in different languages, listening to a talk or lecture abroad, or watching TV shows or movies in another language, all you need to do is put on your headphones, open the Translate app, tap 'Live Translate,' and hear instant translations in your preferred language," said Rose Yao, Vice President of Product Management at Google, in a blog post.
The beta version is now available in the Android Translate app in the United States, Mexico, and India. The feature works with any headphones and supports over 70 languages.
The company plans to bring the functionality to iOS in 2026 and expand availability to additional countries.
Regarding the upcoming advanced Gemini-powered translation features, Google says they will deliver smarter, more natural, and accurate text translations. These enhancements will improve the handling of nuanced expressions such as slang, idioms, and region-specific phrases.
For example, when translating an English idiom like "stealing my thunder," Gemini will analyze context to capture the true meaning, providing a more accurate interpretation instead of a literal word-for-word translation.
This update is currently rolling out in the U.S. and India, supporting translations between English and nearly 20 other languages, including Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, and German. It’s accessible across Android, iOS, and web versions of the Translate app.
Google is also extending its language learning tools to nearly 20 new regions, including Germany, India, Sweden, and Taiwan. English speakers can now practice German, while speakers of Bengali, Simplified Chinese, Dutch, German, Hindi, Italian, Romanian, and Swedish can practice English.
The company has introduced enhanced feedback features that provide users with actionable tips based on their spoken responses during practice sessions.
In addition, a new streak-tracking function allows users to monitor consecutive days of learning, helping them visualize progress and maintain consistent study habits. While these tools aim to compete with Duolingo, this latest addition brings the experience closer to that of the popular language-learning platform.
