Google Translate breaks down communication barriers by offering numerous ways to translate languages. For Android and iOS users, the Google Translate app is the best way to communicate on the go. Google Translate works with text, voice, or image inputs. While owners of the latest Google Pixel phone have access to the most features, any device has access to the fundamental tools that make Google Translate great.

We show you how to use the Google Translate app to translate text, images, or audio and explain extra features like Live Translate.

Does Google Translate work well?

Google Translate is constantly improving. While many people might consider it a shallow translation tool at best, unable to translate the meaning in a sentence, its progress over the years cannot be denied. While it can't grasp the subtle nuances of languages, it is more than adequate for everyday purposes.

Google Translate no longer performs a word-for-word match on text. Instead, it relies on machine learning to decide the most accurate translation. However, translation accuracy varies depending on the language. In a 2019 UCLA study based on medical instructions (where even the slightest ambiguity is unacceptable), they found a 94% accuracy rate for English to Spanish, compared to a 55% accuracy rate for English to Armenian.

However, since 2019, Google Translate has grown by adding more languages and features and improving its translation techniques. You may never run into issues if you use it to translate directions, menu items, or phrases. But if you're trying to translate a classical novel written in Armenian, find a human translator.

Where can I use Google Translate?

Google Translate is available as a mobile app for iPhones, iPads, and Android phones and as a Chrome extension. It comes preinstalled on most Android phones, so you shouldn't need to download it again from the Google Play Store. The app has the most features, but you'll need an internet connection to access all the features.

You can also access Google Translate through its web page or the Chrome extension. This extension allows you to translate web pages without copying the text into Google Translate.

Regardless of which platform you use it on, it provides multiple translation services.

How to translate conversations in real time with Google Translate

One of the most notable features of Google Translate is the translation of real-time conversations. In this situation, your mobile device works like a human translator. Speak a sentence, and the translated text appears on your screen as you speak. You can output the translation as audio, so the other party can listen to the translated version instead of reading it.

If you need offline translation, you must download the language pack beforehand.

1. Open Google Translate.
2. Tap the Conversation button in the lower-left corner of your screen.

   

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3. Tap the language heading above the lower-left microphone and choose a source language.

   

   

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4. Tap the language heading above the lower-right microphone to choose a target language.
5. Tap the microphone button under the Auto heading to use automatic translation.
6. Tap the microphone button for each language to use manual translation.

   

   

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How to translate text and speech in Google Translate

Google Translate's basic form of text translation can quickly and accurately translate single words or short phrases, which is handy if you're learning a new language and are stuck on a noun. You can type or speak your phrase, and Google Translate provides a text and audio translation.

1. Open Google Translate.
2. Tap the language button to the left of the arrows to choose a source language.

   

   

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3. Tap the language button to the right of the arrows to choose a target language. You can tap the two arrow button between the languages to swap the languages.
4. Tap Enter text to type a phrase.
5. Tap the microphone button in the bottom center of your screen to speak a phrase.
6. Tap each phrase's Copy or Speaker button to copy or read it aloud.

   

   

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How to use Google Translate with your camera

Google Translate can translate text that appears on images. This tool is helpful if you're reading signs, menus, or labels, and you can take a photo of the text or import an image.

1. Open Google Translate.
2. Tap the Camera icon in the lower-right corner of the screen.
3. Tap the language in the upper-left corner of your screen to choose a source language.
4. Tap the language in the upper-right corner of your screen to choose a target language. You can tap the two arrow buttons between the languages to swap the languages.
5. Select Instant in the lower-left corner of your screen to translate an image in real time with your camera.
6. Select Import in the lower-left corner of your screen to translate a saved image.

   

   

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How to translate languages offline with Google Translate

If you're traveling, you may be unable to keep a constant internet connection. To avoid getting caught out, use Google Translate offline. Only a limited number of languages are supported offline. Here's how to download a language to use offline.

1. Open Google Translate.
2. Tap a language at the bottom of your screen.
3. Scroll down to the language you want to translate offline.

   

   

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4. Tap the Download button to the right of the language.

   

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How to translate handwriting in Google Translate

If you own a device with a stylus, like the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, you can use handwritten text instead of typing. However, everyone can also use this tool with their finger.

1. Open Google Translate.
2. Tap Enter text in the center of your screen.

   

   

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3. Tap the handwriting button in the upper-right corner of your screen.
4. Write your text in the bottom window.

   

   

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How to save phrases in Google Translate

If you regularly use a phrase, you can save it for easy access. These saved translations are saved across devices, and here's how to do it.

1. Open Google Translate.
2. Translate a phrase using text, voice, or handwriting.
3. Tap the star button in the upper-right corner of your screen.

   

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To access your translations, go to Google Translate's homepage. Here, tap the star button in the upper-left corner of your screen. You can scroll to see all saved translations or tap the magnifying glass icon in the upper-right corner of your screen to search.

How to enable Live Translate on Google Pixel phones

Pixel phones have the best translation features of all Android phones. They can detect and translate languages in real time, creating a pop-up window showing the translation. You can start playing a video and see a translation within seconds. However, not all languages are compatible. Selecting a language shows compatible features.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap System.
3. Tap Live Translate.

   

   

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4. Toggle the Use Live Translate switch to on.
5. Tap Add a language.
6. Scroll down and tap the language you wish to translate.
7. Tap Add language on the pop-up window.

   

   

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When a conversation in a foreign language is detected, tap the Translate pop-up to translate the received text in real time.

Use Google Translate at home or on your next journey

Google Translate's powerful translation tools can make traveling a breeze, but language isn't the only obstacle to a safe trip. To ensure all your devices arrive safely, follow our guide to pack your electronics safely and securely.