Do Apple AirPods Translate Languages?

Thanks to voice recognition software, artificial intelligence (AI), and millions of lines of computer programming, many headsets can translate languages. While most of these devices are still in their infancy, they can either work alone or in tandem with third-party applications. With that said, can something as advanced as Apple AirPods translate languages?

Apple AirPods by themselves do not translate languages. Yet, that does not mean all is lost. There are many programs on Apple’s App Store that are compatible with AirPods. It can work with apps like Google Translate and iTranslate to break past the language barrier and improve communication.

In later AirPods versions, certain updates could grant the device the ability to translate languages without using external applications. Read on to learn more about how you can use your AirPods with other apps to understand virtually any language.

Can You Use AirPods to Translate Languages?

Apple’s second-generation AirPods can:

• Respond to “Hey Siri” commands
• Connect to your phone with twice the speed as previous the previous model
• Remain connected for up to five hours of listening time

Yet, despite all of these features, AirPods do not translate languages without external support. To do this, you would need to use the appropriate app.

Using Your iPhone as a Translator

Depending on which iPhone you have, you may already have Apple’s Translate app. This is for people with iOS 14 or higher. Right now, the app translates 11 languages, although more are expected to be added in the future.

Through this app, you can:

• Translate languages using voice-to-speech software 
• Save commonly used phrases for future reference
• Type in queries manually
• Provide definitions and translations as needed

You can also use the app offline!

Using a Third-Party App to Translate

Admittedly, Apple’s Translate app is limited in terms of its language selection. However, there are other apps available that offer more languages.

There are dozens of language translators on the App Store. Many of these apps rely on voice-to-text software to identify and decipher languages.

Some of these apps include:

• Intelligent Translator
• In Translator
• iTranslate Translator
• Translator X – OCR Tool
• Translatium ­­– Translator

Currently, on Apple’s App Store, all of these applications were rated four stars or higher. While some of these apps are 100 percent free, others need to be bought. You may want to test out several applications to find one that’s right for you or before deciding to make a purchase.

Other Earbuds Can Translate Languages

Even though AirPods come with an array of benefits, there are other earbuds on today’s market that can translate languages in real time without an app’s assistance. These products include:

Timekettle’s WT2 Language Translator

Timekettle’s WT2 Language Translator can translate over 40 languages and over 90 accents.

There are three modes in which you can set your device. They include:

• Simul mode: In this setting, both users need to have one earbud in their ears. This allows for real-time conversion with no lagging. A person can talk uninterrupted while the earbud actively translates the language.
• Touch mode: Here, you need to touch the earpiece to activate it. Designed for a noisy, crowded environment, the device will start translating within one to three seconds.
• Speaker mode: With this option, you can connect your earbuds to your phone. This is designed for groups of more than two people.

The earbuds themselves can last five hours each, and their compact case can last 15 hours with a full charge.

Google’s Pixel Buds

You can use Google’s product with or without the Google app on your phone. Here, you can translate 40 languages. You can also:

• Translate languages by manually typing in queries
• Pair the device with other compatible products, like your Google Home
• Use them with either Android or Apple operating systems

Google is continually releasing new firmware updates to cut down on static and block out background noise.

JoveTrans Lite Translator Earbuds

These smart earbuds translate over 20 languages, including Korean, French, and Spanish. They are ideal for business conferences and lectures.

In addition to its language-translating capabilities, you can also use these headphones to play music and access Google or Siri. They have an eight-hour battery life and are water-resistant. Their case can last 24 hours on a single charge.

The JoveTrans Lite Translator Earbuds can also be used in conjunction with its user-friendly app, which grants users access to additional features.   

Conclusion

Since its release in 2016, AirPods have become a recognizable cultural icon. They virtually eliminated wired earbuds and pioneered a new age in Bluetooth technology.

As of right now, you cannot use AirPods to translate languages, but you can use it in conjunction with third-party apps. You can learn more about AirPods’ function, design, and features by reading the user manual here.