T-Mobile adds live AI translation to calls via dial code 87

T-Mobile is adding live AI translation to phone calls

T-Mobile announced it will soon introduce live translation to all phones connected to its 5G or 4G networks. The feature will work automatically for selected users, requiring no specific app or device.

To access it, users simply type **"87"** on the keypad during a phone call. The carrier confirmed to The Verge that the feature will also be compatible with basic feature phones and flip phones.

How the network-based translation works

The translation processing happens entirely on T-Mobile's network servers, not on the user's device. This approach removes the need for both callers to have compatible hardware or software.

A key requirement is that at least one caller must be on T-Mobile's network. The company states it will not save call recordings or transcripts, though audio must pass through its servers to function.

This differs from most translation apps, which often rely on downloaded language packs and on-device AI models. T-Mobile has not specified which AI model it will use for the translations.

Beta testing starts this spring

Testing for T-Mobile's live translation will begin for selected users this spring. A wider commercial launch is planned for later this year.

The feature will be free during the beta period. A company spokesperson told PCMag that "more on pricing and plan details" will be shared closer to the commercial launch, indicating a potential surcharge later.

Interested customers can sign up for the beta at t-mobile.com/benefits/live-translation.

Activation and compatibility details

While the initial activation method is dialing "87," The Verge reports beta participants will eventually also be able to trigger translation by saying "Hey T-Mobile."

The service's main advantages and limitations stem from its network-based design:

• Advantage: Works on any phone connected to T-Mobile's network, increasing accessibility.
• Limitation: Users cannot choose their preferred AI translation model.
• Advantage: Only one caller needs to be a T-Mobile customer for the feature to work.

The carrier confirmed the feature will work on both its 5G and 4G LTE networks, despite its press release primarily highlighting 5G.