iOS 17: How to Translate With the Action Button in Real Time

Nick deCourville

2 minute read
| How-To
  • Make sure you check for a software update via Settings > General > Software Update.
  • The Action Button replaces the mute toggle; it is the button above your volume buttons.
  • Don’t forget the Action Button gives quick access to additional features, like your Flashlight.
Translate Action Button iOS November 2023 Featured

iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max’s Action Button comes with a variety of functions, including a new ability to translate languages thanks to iOS 17.2. As someone who spends a lot of time talking to folks from around the globe, being able to quickly translate on the fly is incredibly useful. So let’s take a look at how you can use this feature with your Action Button. 

How Can I Translate with the Action Button?

If you want to start translating via your Action Button, the steps are really easy, though you will need to move between two different apps. 

1. Set Up Translate for Action Button

Before you begin using your Action Button for seamless translations, you’re going to need to set up your Translate app. Ensure the Translate app is set to the languages you wish to translate between using the Action Button. So if you’re going from English to French,  English and French will need to be set up in the Translate app.

  1. Open the Translate app.
    Note: You can easily find it by swiping down from your Home screen and using the Search function. You can also find it in the App Store. 
  2. While in Translate, you should see two boxes: the language you are translating from (top box) and the translation language you are translating to (bottom box). Tap the language in the second box.
    Translate Action Button iOS Translate Menu  
  3. Choose your language from the drop-down menu. 
    Translate Action Button iOS Choose Language
  4. You can also follow steps two and three to change your first language.
  5. Leave the Translate app.

Now that you have your languages set up, you can set up your Action Button. 

2. Set Up Action Button for Translate

Note icon NOTE
You will have to use the Translate app to change your Translate settings. Also note that the key here is ensuring Translate is your selection in the Action Button setting. 
  1. Go to the Settings app on your iPhone. 
  2. Scroll down and select the Action Button menu.
    Translate Action Button iOS Tap Action Button
  3. Swipe left or right through the carousel of actions until you see Translate. 
    Translate Action Button iOS Select Translate
  4. Close Settings.

3. Use Translate with Action Button

Note icon NOTE
Your Dynamic Island will show you the languages you are translating to and from. 

Time needed: 1 minute

Now that your Action Button is properly set up to translate, you can use it whenever you see fit. 

  1. Press and hold your Action Button.

  2. Your Dynamic Island will change to say “English, Listening”. Speak in your chosen language.

    Translate Action Button iOS English Listening

  3. You will then see your translated text after a moment. 

  4. Translate will then say the phrase out loud.

  5. Use the Play button to hear the audio again. 

    Translate Action Button iOS Tap Play Button

  6. Tap on your Home screen when you are finished to dismiss Dynamic Island.

Conclusion

The new translation feature for the Action Button is sure to make the lives of iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max owners easier. Having a quick translation tool can be a big help in making communication clearer, especially if you are unfamiliar with a certain foreign language. No doubt this may likely become a favorite accessibility feature for some. Give translation assistance a try to see what new conversations you can begin. 

If you have any additional ideas or suggestions, please let us know in the comments. 

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