AirPods Get Live Translation, New Features

On June 10, 2024, Engadget reported that Apple will introduce a Live Translation feature for its AirPods lineup as part of the upcoming iOS 18 software update. The function allows an AirPods user to speak while a paired iPhone plays the audio translation aloud for another person. When the other person responds, the user hears the translation directly in their AirPods. The iPhone's Translate app will display a real-time transcription of the conversation to supplement the audio.

In addition to translation, Apple announced other updates for the earbuds. A new feature called Siri Interactions will enable users to accept or decline calls by physically nodding or shaking their head. The AirPods Pro model will also gain Voice Isolation, a computational audio technology that uses the H2 chip to remove disruptive background noise for the person on the other end of a call. These new capabilities for AirPods are scheduled to launch with the public release of iOS 18.