If you’ve been noticing an increase in your use of AirPods, you’re not alone. With the upcoming release of iOS 19, Apple is set to introduce an exciting feature that may make it even harder to take your AirPods off: live translation.
When AirPods were first launched, they represented a sleek, wireless version of traditional earbuds. However, their functionality has evolved significantly over time. With features such as Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, and Conversation Awareness, AirPods have transformed into devices that enhance our auditory experience, almost like augmented reality for your ears.
The introduction of Hearing Aid and Hearing Protection features in iOS 18.1 for the AirPods Pro 2 further solidified their place as essential everyday devices. Now, with iOS 19, Apple is poised to take this innovation even further.
According to renowned tech journalist Mark Gurman, Apple is preparing to roll out a live translation feature for AirPods that will be compatible with iOS 19. This feature is designed to facilitate communication between speakers of different languages. For example, if an English speaker is conversing with someone speaking Spanish, the iPhone will translate the Spanish speech into English and relay it through the AirPods. Conversely, the English speaker's words will be translated into Spanish for the other person.
While Gurman suggests that this feature may be available on some existing AirPods models, there’s a possibility that it could be exclusive to the upcoming AirPods Pro 3, which will feature the new H3 chip.
For individuals who often find themselves in multilingual environments, this live translation feature could be revolutionary. Living in a diverse city like New York, I encounter a plethora of spoken languages every day. The prospect of understanding others and engaging in real conversations using my AirPods and iPhone is nothing short of remarkable.
How well this feature will work depends on the implementation details, but I am optimistic that Apple will deliver a live translation experience that outshines existing third-party solutions. This advancement will provide yet another compelling reason to keep your AirPods in, even when you’re not actively listening to music or podcasts.
Are you excited to use the live translation feature with your AirPods in iOS 19? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below. Additionally, if you’re looking for the best AirPods deals and accessories, stay tuned for updates!
