With WatchOS 11, the Apple Watch introduces a real-time Translate app that enables live conversation in two languages. Here’s how you can use and optimize it for seamless multilingual conversations.
How to Use the Apple Watch Translate App in Real Time
1. Update Your Watch
Before starting, confirm that your devices are updated to iOS 18 or higher on your iPhone and WatchOS 11 or higher on your Apple Watch. On each device, go to Settings > General > Software Update. You can also update via the Watch app on your phone by navigating to My Watch > General > Software Update.
2. Launch and Configure the Translate App
To open the app, find Translate on your watch’s Home Screen and tap Continue if it’s your first time. You can adjust settings by tapping the ellipsis icon (three dots) in the upper right. This menu lets you change playback speed and enable Auto-Play Translations for automatic spoken translations.
3. Download Languages for Offline Use
The Translate app performs translations online by default, but you may need offline translations in areas with weak connectivity. Connect to Wi-Fi, tap Downloaded Languages, and choose the languages you’ll need. The app supports 20 languages, including Spanish, French, Mandarin, and German. Activate On-Device Mode to enable offline use with your downloaded languages.
4. Choose Your Languages
Back at the main screen, set the input language by tapping the first language displayed. Adjust the second language as needed; for example, if you’re heading to Italy and want to practice Italian, select it as your secondary language.
5. Start a Conversation
To begin, tap the microphone icon and speak. The app will display and vocalize the translation in your chosen language for the other person to hear. Switch languages by tapping the squiggly line icon to flip the translation direction.
6. Continue the Conversation
The app makes it easy to sustain the conversation. Simply speak, and the translation will play for the other person. As they respond, their words will be translated and spoken back to you.
7. Manage Your Translations
Swipe left on a conversation to delete it, or swipe right and tap the star icon to mark it as a favorite. Access starred conversations by tapping the small star at the top left of the screen.
Tips to Get the Most Out of the Translate App
1. Check the Input Language
Ensure the input language is displayed on top to avoid confusion. While the app doesn’t yet offer automatic language detection, pausing briefly can allow you to adjust the settings if needed.
2. Optimize the Volume
Since the Apple Watch’s speaker is modest in size, turn the digital crown to maximize volume for clarity.
3. Adjust the Translation Rate
Return to the settings to slow down or speed up the translation speed as necessary. This can improve the flow of conversation, especially when practicing or learning new languages.
By following these steps and tips, you can make the most of Apple Watch’s Translate app for multilingual conversations, whether traveling or practicing a new language at home!
