Google Translate to offer real time translation - but not Thai yet

[Gaybutton]

According to the article, if and when real time Thai translation becomes available, it will be done via smartphone app and a headphone. I'm not sure why the necessity for a headphone. I would think the phone's own speaker would work, but maybe not. The article doesn't explain that. Nevertheless it will certainly be interesting to see how well it works.
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Google Translate set to add real-time headphone translation

Puriward Sinthopnumchai

December 15, 2025

Google has announced a significant update for its Google Translate application, integrating the Gemini large language model to enhance real-time language translation through any pair of headphones equipped with a microphone.

This upgrade supports over 70 languages globally, including Thai, marking a considerable expansion of the technology’s accessibility.

The new functionality, which Google is calling "Live Translate", will initially be rolled out to Android mobile users. Users will simply need to touch the dedicated "Live translate" button after connecting their microphone-equipped headphones, effectively turning them into a real-time translation device. This is a notable shift, as the feature was previously restricted solely to Google's own hardware, such as the Pixel Buds 2 Pro.

Google is currently commencing the staged global launch of this feature within the Google Translate app on Android devices. The initial rollout will target the United States, Mexico, and India, with plans to expand to other nations and iOS sometime in 2026.

According to the technology giant, the introduction of the advanced Gemini model into Google Translate is expected to yield substantial improvements in translation quality. Translations will become more natural-sounding and accurate. Specifically, Gemini is designed to better maintain the speaker's vocal tone, preserve the emphasis and cadence of their speech, and more effectively recognise idioms and slang.

In a move seemingly inspired by language-learning platforms such as Duolingo, Google is also introducing a feature to track a user's language-learning streak — the number of consecutive days they have engaged with a new language. This addition aims to simplify the monitoring of progress for individuals learning new languages.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/life/tech/3 ... ranslation

[Jun]

Headphones avoid feedback.

[Gaybutton]

Headphones avoid feedback.

Ok, but I'd like to try without headphones to see how well it works without them. I don't use headphones with regular telephone use and have never had any feedback. I don't know why this app would cause feedback, so I would want to at least try and see.

[Jun]

I suppose the other difference is that when on the phone, both people do not talk simultaneously.

Whereas, with real time translation, I presume that means you're going to get both languages almost simultaneously.

I'm quite happy to use bluetooth earbuds with my Android devices. The Soundcore brand is reasonably priced and they work well.
Friction is what keeps them in your ears, so make sure you keep your ears and the earbuds clean.

[Gaybutton]

Whereas, with real time translation, I presume that means you're going to get both languages almost simultaneously.

If they get around to including the Thai language, we'll find out. I, for one, won't be using headphones, earbuds or anything else. I don't like using those kinds of things. Besides, I have never needed anything like that and don't see much of a reason why I would need it now. Of course I'm speaking only for myself and my own preferences.