How to use Google Translate for real-time translations on any headphones

Language barriers can appear at any time while travelling, attending meetings, or speaking with someone from another state or country. In a multilingual country like India, where many languages are spoken on a daily basis, this challenge is especially common. Google Translate offers a simple and effective solution with real-time voice translation using your smartphone. What’s more interesting is you do not need expensive smart earbuds or special translation devices, as any regular wired or wireless headphones will work. If you’re curious about how you can use Google Translate for real-time translations on any headphones, check the detailed guide below.

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Step-by-step guide to using Google Translate with headphones

Using the real-time translations with Google Translate is easy. All you need to do is connect your handset to your headphones and follow the underlying steps:

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1. Launch the Google Translate app on your smartphone.
2. Select the language you speak on the left side at the top and choose the language you want to understand on the right side.
3. Tap the conversation option in the bottom left corner of the main screen.
4. Tap the Start button in the prompt displayed.
5. Place the phone close to the person who is speaking.
   Note: Ask the speaker to talk clearly and at a normal speed.
6. The app listens through the phone’s microphone, and the translated voice will now automatically play in your headphones.

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Tips for better translation results

If you’re looking to use this feature to its fullest, then you should follow the below-mentioned tips:

1. Use the app in a quiet place whenever possible.
2. Hold the phone close to the speaker’s mouth.
3. Avoid overlapping voices from multiple people.
4. Ensure your internet connection is stable.
5. Ask the speaker to repeat slowly if the translation sounds incorrect.

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How are real-time translations on Google Translate different from Apple’s Live Translation?

Google’s real-time translations using the Google Translate app focus on flexibility, allowing users to use any headphones for it. This eliminates the need to purchase a specific device for translation purposes. Users only need an Android smartphone, the Google Translate app and any headphones (wired or wireless). The translation mode is one-way, as the users listen while the speaker talks. The app supports 70+ languages in beta mode and preserves the speaker’s voice and punctuation.

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On the contrary, Apple’s Live Translation is tightly integrated into the Apple ecosystem. It works only with specific AirPods and an iPhone running the latest iOS with Apple Intelligence enabled. Its main advantage is support for face-to-face conversations, allowing both users to speak and hear translations. Apple also provides transcripts and replay features.

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Bhaskar Sharma

Bhaskar is a senior copy editor at Digit India, where he simplifies complex tech topics across iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and emerging consumer tech. His work has appeared in iGeeksBlog, GuidingTech, and other publications, and he previously served as an assistant editor at TechBloat and TechReloaded. A B.Tech graduate and full-time tech writer, he is known for clear, practical guides and explainers. View Full Profile