Google Chat Gets Automatic Translation and Improved @Mentions
Google Chat now offers automatic translation for over 120 languages, a feature available on web, Android, and iOS. Users can enable this in Settings. See how this compares to Apple's iOS development.
This translation applies only to the conversation stream, not to notifications or home screen snippets. Also, only the user viewing the chat sees the translated messages. The rollout is expected over the next few weeks for Workspace customers with Gemini Business/Enterprise or AI Meetings and Messaging add-ons.
Enhanced @Mentions
Google Chat's @mentions are getting a redesign with smart chips for a consistent look across Workspace. Simplified colors highlight personal mentions. Hovering over a chip reveals user details, and clicking starts a direct message. This aligns with trends in AI-driven communication tools.
When mentioning someone not in the conversation, users can choose to add them or send the message without adding them. This feature applies to Spaces and group chats, but not direct messages. It will be available first on the web, followed by Android and iOS in Q1 2025. These @mention updates are for all Workspace customers, Workspace Individual subscribers, and personal Google account users. Other platforms are also enhancing communication features.