Skip to main content
Supplier Portal Login

Browser Translation Guide: Chrome, Firefox, and Edge

  • Updated

Browser Translation Guide: Chrome, Firefox, and Edge

Most modern browsers now include built-in translation tools, allowing you to read the web in your preferred language without installing extra plugins. Here is how to use the native translation features in the "Big Three" browsers as of 2026.

1. Google Chrome (Powered by Google Translate)

Chrome uses the Google Translate engine and typically detects foreign languages automatically.

  • How to translate: When you visit a page in a foreign language, look for the Translate icon (a small 'G' and a character) on the right side of the address bar. Click it and select your language.

  • Manual Trigger: Right-click anywhere on the page and select Translate to [Language].

  • Settings: Go to Settings > Languages. Here, you can toggle Use Google Translate on or off and manage which languages should always (or never) be translated.

  • Translate Selection: Highlight a specific sentence, right-click it, and select Translate selection to [Language].

2. Mozilla Firefox (Private & Local Translation)

Firefox’s translation tool is unique because it performs the translation locally on your device rather than sending your data to a cloud server, prioritizing your privacy.

  • How to translate: When Firefox detects a supported language, a translation icon (resembling a document) appears in the toolbar. Click it, choose your target language, and select Translate.

  • Offline Use: Since Firefox translates locally, it may prompt you to download a small language model the first time you use it for a specific language.

  • Settings: Click the cog icon in the translation panel or go to Settings > General > Language and Appearance > Translations to manage installed languages and automated prompts.

  • Restore Original: To go back, click the toolbar icon again and select Show Original.

3. Microsoft Edge (Powered by Microsoft Translator)

Edge uses the Microsoft Translator service and is deeply integrated into the Windows and macOS browsing experience.

  • How to translate: A translation prompt usually appears automatically at the top of the page. If it doesn't, click the Translate icon in the address bar.

  • Customization: In the translation pop-up, you can check the box for Always translate from [Language] to automate the process for that specific tongue in the future.

  • Settings: Go to Settings > Languages. Ensure the toggle Offer to translate pages that aren't in a language I read is turned on.

  • PDF Translation: Edge is unique in that it can also translate PDF files. Open a PDF in Edge, highlight text, right-click, and select Translate selection.

Related articles