Live translation was previously only available outside of Europe. Now, Apple is bringing the AI-powered real-time translation feature to the European Union. It will be available on supported iPhones and compatible AirPods starting in December. The rollout was delayed due to requirements of the Digital Markets Act. Apple has adapted the feature to EU regulations without compromising privacy or functionality.
With iOS 26 and the new AirPods models, Apple is introducing live translation, which transmits spoken language in real time – without an internet connection and directly on the iPhone. This feature has not been available in the EU until now. Its launch is imminent. The function is aimed at users who want to communicate across languages without relying on external translation services. The processing takes place locally on the device and is privacy-friendly.
What live translation can do
Live translation picks up the spoken word via the AirPods and plays it back directly in the wearer's language. The audio is delivered through the headphones, while the iPhone also displays a transcript of the translation on its screen. This can be helpful for the other person as well, for example, if they are not using an Apple device. The feature is based on language models that are downloaded once. After that, the translation runs completely offline and locally – without an internet connection.
Supported languages
Nine languages are integrated at launch:
- Chinese
- German
- English
- French
- Italian
- Japanese
- Korean
- Portuguese
- Spanish
No other languages have been announced yet, but could follow with future updates.
Technical requirements
Live translation requires iOS 26 and an iPhone with Apple Intelligence. Currently compatible are:
- iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16e
- all models of the iPhone 16 and 17 series
The AirPods must contain the H2 chip and ANC. This includes:
- AirPods Pro 2 (with Lightning or USB-C)
- AirPods Pro 3
- AirPods 4 with Active Noise Canceling
AirPods Max and Powerbeats Pro 2 are not supported. The feature is also only available on iPhones. iPads and Macs are excluded. Beats devices will also not receive the feature.
Integration with Apple apps
Apple has deeply integrated live translation into the system. Besides its general use in conversation mode, it's also available in FaceTime, the Phone app, and the Messages app. This allows translations to be incorporated directly into conversations or text communication.
Why the function will be introduced later in the EU
Apple attributes the delay to the Digital Markets Act. EU regulations require that features like live translation not disadvantage third-party solutions. Therefore, Apple had to revise its audio routing. The interfaces were adjusted to grant third-party apps the same rights to use the audio path as its own translation function. Apple wanted to ensure interoperability without compromising security or privacy.
Beta status and updates
Live translation is officially still in beta. Users will be notified of this in the settings. The final version is scheduled to be rolled out in December via an iOS update – specifically iOS 26.2. A separate firmware update for the AirPods is not required. Developers have been able to test the feature since November 4th. A public beta is also planned.
Availability in Europe
Live translation works the same way worldwide. However, a specially adapted update is required for the EU. This update is scheduled for release in December. In the past, the feature could be used in Europe indirectly – for example, with a US Apple account – but it wasn't officially enabled. This workaround will be eliminated with iOS 26.2 .
- New iOS 26 feature: Use live translation with AirPods
- iPhone Tip: Live Translation in Messages, Phone & FaceTime
Live translation in the Apple ecosystem: EU launch imminent
Live translation significantly expands communication possibilities within the Apple ecosystem. The feature combines local AI processing, data privacy, and real-time capability in a way that works offline. Integration with existing Apple services provides additional benefits. With compliance to the Digital Markets Act, the feature is now also EU-compliant and will soon be available to users in Europe. The only requirements are a current iPhone with Apple Intelligence and compatible AirPods – then nothing stands in the way of real-time translation. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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