Apple Music in iOS 26 introduces a new Lyrics Translation feature that makes it easier to understand songs in foreign languages. The feature not only provides real-time translations but also offers a pronunciation guide, helping listeners follow along with the lyrics while preserving their meaning and cultural context. This update is especially useful for fans of international music such as K-pop or Latin hits, where lyrics can now be both understood and pronounced more easily.
Lyrics Translation works directly from the Now Playing screen and is powered by machine learning, with input from language experts to ensure accuracy. Translations are designed to keep the emotional tone of the lyrics intact while showing pronunciation guides beneath the original lines.
To use Lyrics Translation:
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Open the Apple Music app and play a song in a supported foreign language.
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On the Now Playing screen, tap the Lyrics button at the bottom to bring up live lyrics.
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If translation is available, a Translate icon will appear in the bottom-left corner of the lyrics panel.
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Tap the icon to open a menu where you can select Show Translation, Show Pronunciation, or enable both at the same time.
That’s it! The translated text will now be displayed beneath the original lyrics.
Apple also includes a customization option for how translations and pronunciations appear. Go to Settings > Music > Larger Text under the Lyrics section. Here, you can choose whether Lyrics or Pronunciation should display in larger text when both are enabled. This makes it easier to focus on whichever is most important to you while listening.
Not all songs support translation or pronunciation, as availability depends on specific language pairs and licensed tracks. Additionally, locally synced music does not support this feature, and an active internet connection is required for translations to load. If the Translate icon does not appear, the track likely does not include a translation.
With Lyrics Translation in iOS 26, Apple Music expands accessibility and deepens the listening experience. By breaking down language barriers, it allows listeners to enjoy songs more fully, whether they want to understand the meaning of the lyrics or learn how to pronounce the words while singing along.
