A natural step in the evolution of headphones is the ability to provide simultaneous speech translation—when paired with a smartphone, of course. Apple is not the first to explore this feature, but with the release of iOS 19, it plans to integrate it into AirPods wireless headphones.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, known for his insights into Apple’s plans, reported that this update will roll out before the end of the year. While Apple introduced a similar feature for iPhones in 2020, implementing it in AirPods is expected to make the experience more convenient.
Competing Solutions Already Exist
Apple is not breaking new ground in this area. Google introduced a similar feature in its first-generation Pixel Buds back in 2017 and has continued refining it. Additionally, Meta and Humane have included simultaneous translation in their wearable devices in recent years.
How the Feature Will Work
When paired with an iPhone, AirPods will allow users to hear real-time translations of their conversation partner’s speech in the desired language. Meanwhile, the user’s spoken responses will be captured by the AirPods’ microphone, sent to the iPhone for translation, and then played back to the interlocutor through the smartphone’s speakers, adds NIXSOLUTIONS.
Apple’s implementation aims to enhance usability, and we’ll keep you updated as more details emerge.