No matter where you live, Google Translate is an incredibly handy tool. It’s a lifesaver if you frequently interact with people who don’t speak your language. Or when you’re traveling to a new place, and in many other situations. Now, Google Translate is looking to step up its game by introducing a new Practice feature, along with a one-tap search option for translated text. While Google hasn’t officially announced these features yet, an APK teardown offers a sneak peek at what’s in the works.
Google Translate could bring a Practice feature soon
Move over, Duolingo! According to Android Authority, Google Translate v9.7.102 contains early code for this new feature, aimed at helping users improve their language skills. Currently, it appears to work only with English and Spanish, but additional language pairs may be added in the future.
A new Practice button is expected to appear on the main screen as well as the translation results page. However, the feature isn’t functional yet, and clicking the button attempts to open a web page that fails to load. Some hints in the app’s code suggest that users will need to sign in and grant microphone access. This implies that some practice activities could involve speaking out loud.
Google Translate may also get a smart Search shortcut
In addition to the Practice mode, Google is also testing a Search shortcut that makes it easier to explore translated words or phrases. A small “G” button may soon appear next to the translated text, and tapping it will open a new screen displaying Google search results for that translation in the target language.
This could be especially useful for understanding how certain phrases are used in real-life contexts or for gaining deeper insight into their meaning and usage. The search results might open either in the Google app or your phone’s browser, though it’s still unclear how the app will determine which to use.
These features aren’t live yet, and Google hasn’t officially confirmed them. However, if they do roll out, they could turn Google Translate into an even more valuable tool.