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21h ago

T-Mobile Embeds Real-Time AI in Its Network, Opens Beta for Call Translation

The carrier says translations run on-network without storing call audio, a claim drawing fresh privacy questions given its breach history.

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Live Translation allows any phone call made on any mobile phone over a 5G or even 4G network to have real-time language translation.
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Overview

  • Live Translation offers near-instant spoken translation in more than 50 languages on regular phone calls without apps or special devices, and it is for standard voice calls only (not for 911 or 988).
  • Beta registration starts today, with access for selected customers this spring and a wider commercial launch planned later in 2026; the trial is free and future pricing has not been announced.
  • Users can enable translation mid-call by dialing *87*, with a “Hey T‑Mobile” voice trigger expected later in the spring, and only one person on the call needs to be on T‑Mobile.
  • T-Mobile says processing occurs natively in its IMS voice network over VoLTE, VoNR, and Wi‑Fi Calling, implemented as a software update with no new tower hardware or datacenter rerouting.
  • The company states it will not save recordings or transcripts or train models on call audio, as analysts spotlight prior breaches and a 2024 FCC settlement in evaluating privacy assurances.