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SMALL STEPS. USEFUL SKILLS.

Translate a sign or menu

Use the camera in Apple's Translate app to show writing in a language you understand.

iPhone · iOSAbout 3 minutes6 steps · 4 with pictures
Follow along on your device

Use the pictures where shown. Follow the short instructions between them.

STEP 1 OF 6

Open Translate

Find the Translate app and tap it. It may be on another Home Screen page or in the App Library.

FOLLOW ALONG ON YOUR SCREEN01
iPhone Home Screen with the Translate app highlighted.
Your screen may look slightly different
Take your time. There’s no rush.
Prefer to see all the steps together?+

STEP 1

Open Translate

Find the Translate app and tap it. It may be on another Home Screen page or in the App Library.

iPhone Home Screen with the Translate app highlighted.
Step 1

STEP 2

Open the camera

Tap Camera in the bar at the bottom of the Translate app.

The Translate app with Camera highlighted in the bottom bar.
Step 2

STEP 3

Choose the language

Tap the language at the top and choose the language you want to read.

STEP 4

Point at the writing

Hold the phone steady so the sign, letter or menu fills the camera view. The translated words appear over the original writing.

STEP 5

Freeze the picture — optional

Tap the round Take Picture button to freeze the view.

Example screen with freeze the picture — optional highlighted.
Step 5

STEP 6

Tap a translation

Tap a translated section to copy it or hear it read aloud.

Example screen with tap a translation highlighted.
Step 6

IF SOMETHING LOOKS DIFFERENT

A little help along the way.

Your menus may look different after an update. Look for the same control name and take your time.

I cannot find that option+

Check that this guide covers your device and software. If the names do not match, use the manufacturer’s instructions linked below for your model.

I need to go back a step+

Use Previous step or select a step number above. This changes the guide only; it does not undo anything on your device.

Are these pictures of my device?+

They are example screens showing exactly where to tap. Your names, apps, wallpaper and layout may look a little different, but the options you need are the same. Some pictures show what you should see after a step.

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