Translate live with AirPods: how this new feature works

Language barriers disappear with one tap. Thanks to iOS 26.2, you can now use Live Translate with your AirPods in the Netherlands!

Translate live with AirPods: how this new feature works

In the beta of iOS 26.2, the Live Translate function is now finally available in the Netherlands. The Dutch language is not yet available, but you can use the function. For example, German, English and Japanese are supported.

The Live Translate feature allows you to have a conversation with someone whose language you don’t speak. With this function, conversations are automatically converted and spoken on your AirPods.

Before you start, it is best to first set up the app. The app must download the language packs the first time. So first start the ‘Translate’ app and tap ‘Live’ at the bottom. Then set the language of yourself and the other person. Your iPhone will then download the language packs (if necessary).

Once that is done you can use the function. To start Live Translate, put both AirPods in your ears and briefly press and hold the stems on both the left and right. You will then hear the message that the app is starting over your earphones.

You need these AirPods to use Live Translate

The function to translate live conversations is nice, but unfortunately does not work with all AirPods. Only some of the recent earbuds can use this new feature. These are the AirPods you need.

• AirPods Pro 3 (€ 248.95);
• AirPods Pro 2 (€ 193.95);
• AirPods 4 with noise cancellation.

No AirPods, still translate conversations

Don’t have AirPods? Then you can still use the app to translate conversations. The automatic translation is then not spoken and you have to look at the screen of your iPhone every time to read the translated text.

However, this is still a great way to have a conversation with someone whose language you don’t speak.

The option to translate a conversation without having AirPods can also be found in the Translate app. Then tap the ‘Conversation’ button at the bottom of the screen. Set the language of both speakers by tapping the language in the speech bubble. Then tap the microphone to start the call.

Buy AirPods

Don’t have AirPods yet? Or do yours really need to be replaced? Then the AirPods Pro 3 are currently the best noise canceling earbuds you can buy. You also get access to Live Translate, the new feature we described above.