With iOS 26.1, Apple is clearly focusing on linguistic diversity and international communication. The update expands Apple Intelligence to include additional languages and takes AirPods Live Translation to a new level. This makes the operating system more attractive, especially for users outside of the company's core markets.
Last year, Apple announced it would expand language support for Apple Intelligence. With iOS 26.1, this promise is now being fulfilled. In addition to eight new languages for Apple Intelligence, there are also additional languages supported for Live Translation for AirPods. The update is already available for developers, and public beta testers will follow shortly.
New languages for Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence is the core AI feature in iOS and is gradually being internationalized. iOS 26.1 adds eight new languages: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Traditional Chinese, and Vietnamese. This significantly expands the list of available languages. Previously, Apple Intelligence supported English in various regional variants (US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, South Africa, India, Singapore), Simplified Chinese, French, Japanese, Spanish, German, Italian, Korean, and Brazilian Portuguese. With the addition in iOS 26.1, many regions in Europe and Asia are now better covered.
More translations for AirPods
AirPods also benefit from the new update. The live translation feature can now also translate Japanese, Korean, and Chinese (both simplified and traditional) in real time. This makes it easier to have conversations in different languages on the go without resorting to external tools or additional devices. This expansion offers a noticeable advantage, especially when traveling or in an international work environment.
- Important note: In EU member states, the function remains blocked until legal issues are resolved.
Availability of iOS 26.1
iOS 26.1 is currently available to developers. As usual, Apple will soon release the beta version to the public test group. This will allow more users to try out the new voice features in the coming weeks before the final version is released.
- New iOS 26 feature: Use live translation with AirPods
- iPhone Tip: Live Translation in Messages, Phone & FaceTime
iOS 26.1 in the sign of languages
iOS 26.1 doesn't bring any dramatic design changes, but it does focus on the international availability of its most important features. The new languages for Apple Intelligence and the enhanced live translations on AirPods make the update especially exciting for anyone who wants to connect globally and overcome language barriers. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / gguy)
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