As reported by The Verge, OpenAI formally introduced its independent, web - based translation tool, ChatGPT Translate, in January 2026, setting up a direct rivalry with Google Translate. This tool enables instant translation across more than 50 languages, encompassing widely - spoken languages like English, Spanish, and Japanese.

The interface of ChatGPT Translate adopts a dual - text box layout, complete with a dropdown menu for language selection, which bears a striking resemblance to that of Google Translate. Users have multiple ways to submit translation requests. They can do so by typing in text, using voice input, or uploading images. The system is smart enough to automatically detect the source language, or users can manually specify the direction of translation.

The core competitive edge of ChatGPT Translate lies in its semantic understanding prowess. It allows users to adjust the expression styles of the translations, covering formal, colloquial, academic, and various other registers. Once a translation is finished, users can engage in an interactive dialogue centered around the translated text. This innovative feature breaks through the single - function limitations of traditional translation tools.

At present, this interactive feature is exclusively available on the web version of ChatGPT Translate. There is no corresponding entry integrated into the mobile app as of yet.