Tech giant Google on Dec. 12, 2025 announced updates to Google Translate that expand its translation and language-learning features using its Gemini AI models. The company said the changes apply to text translation, live speech translation, and language practice tools.
Google Translate now uses Gemini-powered text translation in Search and the Translate app to better handle context, including idioms and colloquial phrases by understanding their true meaning rather than translating word-for-word. The rollout begins in the United States and India, covering English translations with nearly 20 languages "including Spanish, Hindi, Chinese" on Android, iOS, and the web (desktop/PC).
Google is also launching a beta live speech-to-speech translation feature that delivers real-time audio translations through headphones. The beta is available on Android in the U.S., Mexico, and India, supports more than 70 languages, and works with any headphones. Google said Apple's iOS support and additional countries are planned for 2026.
The company also expanded language practice tools, adding progress tracking and improved feedback, and extending availability to nearly 20 additional countries.
However, users should note that AI-powered translation feature can occasionally produce inaccurate results or make incorrect assumptions about context and region. While Gemini-powered translations represent significant improvements, blind reliance on any AI translation without verification — especially for critical communications, legal documents, or region-sensitive content — could lead to misunderstandings.
Testing in Pakistan, for example, revealed instances where Google Search's translation feature incorrectly defaulted to Hindi (India's official language) instead of Urdu when searching for regional terms like 'khota meaning in English,' suggesting the model still struggles with regional language detection and localization across South Asian markets.
Image: DIW
Notes: This post was drafted with the assistance of AI tools and reviewed, edited, and published by human editor.
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Google Translate now uses Gemini-powered text translation in Search and the Translate app to better handle context, including idioms and colloquial phrases by understanding their true meaning rather than translating word-for-word. The rollout begins in the United States and India, covering English translations with nearly 20 languages "including Spanish, Hindi, Chinese" on Android, iOS, and the web (desktop/PC).
Google is also launching a beta live speech-to-speech translation feature that delivers real-time audio translations through headphones. The beta is available on Android in the U.S., Mexico, and India, supports more than 70 languages, and works with any headphones. Google said Apple's iOS support and additional countries are planned for 2026.
The company also expanded language practice tools, adding progress tracking and improved feedback, and extending availability to nearly 20 additional countries.
However, users should note that AI-powered translation feature can occasionally produce inaccurate results or make incorrect assumptions about context and region. While Gemini-powered translations represent significant improvements, blind reliance on any AI translation without verification — especially for critical communications, legal documents, or region-sensitive content — could lead to misunderstandings.
Testing in Pakistan, for example, revealed instances where Google Search's translation feature incorrectly defaulted to Hindi (India's official language) instead of Urdu when searching for regional terms like 'khota meaning in English,' suggesting the model still struggles with regional language detection and localization across South Asian markets.
Notes: This post was drafted with the assistance of AI tools and reviewed, edited, and published by human editor.
Read next: How Much Do Fake Account Verifications Really Cost Across the World?
