Apple is gearing up to make communication across languages even easier. As per the latest iOS 26 beta, AirPods could soon get a real-world Live Translation feature, allowing users to instantly translate conversations in person—without needing to open a separate app.
How It Might Work
The iOS 26 developer beta includes a new gesture-based shortcut for AirPods. By pressing both stems simultaneously, users can activate the translation mode. This will likely connect with the iPhone’s built-in Translate app, enabling quick and seamless conversation translations.
Languages and Support
Beta imagery shows translations between multiple languages such as English, French, German, and Portuguese, hinting at multilingual support right from the start. This could be a game changer for travelers, students, and business professionals who need quick language assistance.
Compatible Devices
The feature is expected to work with AirPods Pro 2 and the upcoming AirPods 4, paired with newer iPhones—most likely the upcoming iPhone 17 series—to handle the translation processing power.
Why This Matters
Apple already offers Live Translation for FaceTime calls, Messages, and voice calls, but this update would expand it to real-world conversations. This could put AirPods in direct competition with translation earbuds from other brands, making them even more essential for everyday use.
Expected Launch
While there’s no official release date, the presence of this feature in iOS 26 beta hints that it could be announced alongside the iPhone 17 launch later this year.
