Advertisement

Google automatically translates local reviews when you travel

The company wants to bridge the language barrier when you're traveling.

Google

We all use user-generated reviews to figure out what points of interest are worth checking out. If you're traveling in a country where you don't speak the language, however, the reviews you rely on are usually in the local tongue. Google has a new feature to help you out. The company will now automatically translate reviews into your native language without any effort on your part.

When you use Google Maps or Search to find a place you're interested in, the reviews will be translated on the fly into the language you have set on your phone. You'll see a parenthetical note that the review has been translated, but that's it. No more pasting unfamiliar language into a translation app or — heaven forbid — using a pocket phrasebook to find that sweet photo spot in Italy or the best shawarma place in Istanbul.

This is just another in a line of features Google's added lately, including a location-sharing feature that you might actually use and tappable shortcuts for its various apps.