Live Translation on AirPods (iOS 26): Quick Guide
iOS 26 adds Live Translation support for AirPods that include Apple’s H2 chip. This lets you translate conversations in real time through your AirPods, with on-device processing for privacy and offline use.
Compatible hardware
- AirPods with H2 chip: AirPods 4 (with ANC), AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3
- Required iPhones: iPhone 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max or any iPhone 16 or iPhone 17 model (must support Apple Intelligence)
Software & setup checklist
- iPhone running iOS 26 with Apple Intelligence enabled
- Apple Translate app installed
- Latest AirPods firmware (check in AirPods settings)
- Downloaded language packs for both sides of the conversation
Languages (at launch)
Supported at launch: English, French, German, Portuguese and Spanish. Additional languages (Italian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese simplified) are expected later in the year.
How to download languages
- Put your AirPods in and connect them to your iPhone.
- Open Settings → tap your AirPods name → Translation → Languages.
- Download both the language you speak and the language the other person will speak.
How to start a Live Translation conversation
- Confirm Apple Intelligence is enabled on your iPhone.
- Open the Translate app and tap Live.
- Select the other person’s language and the language you want to hear.
- Start translation via the Translate app, Action button, pressing both AirPods stems, asking Siri, or Control Center.
During a conversation
- AirPods will translate speech into your chosen language and play Siri’s translation. ANC may engage to reduce noise.
- For noisy environments, move your iPhone closer to the speaker to use its microphones for better capture.
- Use the Translate app’s Live tab to show a transcript or play the translation aloud from your iPhone.
Privacy & offline use
After downloading language models, translation processing happens on your iPhone. Conversations remain local and you can use Live Translation offline.
Warning
Live Translation is currently in beta. Translations use generative models and can be inaccurate or unexpected. Double-check important info (addresses, numbers, directions).
Buy compatible AirPods
More official info: Apple Support — Live Speech & Translate
Note: Live Translation rollout and supported languages may expand — check Apple for the latest updates.