Overcome communication barriers with the new custom Translation option for the iPhone's Action button. Keep reading to learn how to use it.
If you have an iPhone with an Action button (iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 series, iPhone 17 series) Apple has a translation option for the button that allows you to translate live conversations into multiple languages.
According to Apple, the translation is not just accurate but also context-aware, ensuring that nuances and colloquialisms are captured effectively. The feature should be a boon for travelers, students, and anyone learning a language.
Before you use the Translate function, it's important to choose which language you want to translate. You can do this via Apple's built-in Translate app. On the app's main screen, use the chevrons next to the languages to make your selection.
Assign Translate to Action Button
Once you have chosen your languages, you are ready to select the Translate option for the Action button.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap Action Button.
- Swipe to the Translate option to enable it.
Using the Translate Function
To Translate your speech to your chosen language, simply press and hold the Action button on your iPhone and begin speaking. Keep holding down the button for as long as you want to capture speech.
Your iPhone will transcribe what you said and display it in the Dynamic Island, and it will also provide a translation in the chosen language just beneath the transcription. Your iPhone will automatically read aloud the translation, and you can replay it by pressing the play button to the right of it.
Top Rated Comments
"I SAID DO YOU HAVE COFFEE??? MY PHONE JUST SAID IT IN YOUR LANGUAGE. ARE YOU DEAF AND ALSO STUPID???"
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* It only translates one way and does not listen for a reply.
* You cannot even press it again to reverse the translation direction. You have to enter the app.
* About 1/3 of the time it simply fails to work (it "listens" but does not respond). That is not due to the internet because I have the languages downloaded as well.
* The autoplay of the translation to sound never works the first time. After it "plays" it automatically, you then have to press repeat play manually, and only then you can hear it.
* There is no locked screen override, so if you press it on a locked screen it turns itself off after a few seconds, so you have to unlock the screen before use which is ridiculous.
* If you want to speak again after the first translation you have to enter the app or long press it off and then long press it back on again.
I am astounded this is the best they can do... If you devote an actual button to it, it should have more functionality and simply work better. I cannot believe whoever was responsible for this thinks it is good enough. Was it actually tested by people who have experience of needing/using translation aids in real life rather than a quick test be someone clueless in Cupertino? If they could make it work properly it would be great and an example of a really good use of the button. If you are in a stressful situation with live conversation, you don't want to be finding and opening the app. You want to be "on it" immediately. Doing it all from one button would be superb. Come on Apple - sort it out please!