
Microsoft Team's online message translation feature enables users to translate chat messages. More than 60 languages supported, it's a great way to understand co-workers from different countries.
What online message translation can and cannot do
Microsoft Team supports more than 60 Languages. Some of the most popular languages include Arabic, chino (simplified and traditional), English, Spanish and Russian, along with the less used (as an example, Slovak and Welsh). To get a list of all languages, visit Microsoft guide to function.
Unfortunately, Microsoft Team's online message translation feature cannot translate entire chat threads automatically or in real time. Unlike Microsoft Edge's ability to automatically translate entire websites, Teams forces you to translate each individual message one at a time.
At the same time, you need to change the default language of the Microsoft team app, which changes the language of all the settings and items of the navigation menu. This can be unpleasant for people who prefer to use the application in their native language..
How to use Microsoft Team online message translation
To use Microsoft Team online message translation for the first time, download and install Microsoft Teams by visiting Microsoft Teamsand then configure a profile.
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After opening Microsoft Teams and setting up your profile, click on the top right thumbnail image in the top navigation bar, then click “Manage Account”.
Click on the tab “General” and scroll down to the section “Idiom”. Select the application language you want from the drop-down menu, then click “Save and restart”.
From here, the application will close and restart.
After, go to any chat thread, double click on the message you want to translate, then click the three-dot icon in the upper right icon menu and click “Translate”. This will produce an instant translation based on the language you selected in Settings.
To undo a translation, click the menu on the upper right icon of the message and click “View original message”.
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An awkward feature, ideal for light conversations
Microsoft Team's online message translation feature is not the most useful. Even though Teams can translate accurately, The limitations mentioned above could present problems if you prefer to use the application in your native language or want real-time translations.
Look for Microsoft Team's online message translation feature for short messaging sessions that won't require a lot of manual changes.
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