Before you start
Have these ready.
- A phone running Android 10 or newer.
- An Interpreter account with available minutes.
- Microphone permission for System, Mic, or Both.
- Screen-capture permission for System or Both, plus overlay permission if you want the floating transcript.
Production APK available
Download the current Android app from the link below, then follow this setup guide.
Start a session
Follow these steps.
- 01
Open Interpreter
Sign in, choose Transcribe or Translate, and select both languages for the call.
- 02
Choose the source
Select System, Mic, or Both before starting. Interpreter keeps that source for the full session.
- 03
Set the overlay
Enable the caption overlay if you want the transcript to stay above the call app.
- 04
Select Start
Approve the Android permission prompts for the source you selected. Interpreter checks for readable audio before the billed session begins.
- 05
Return to the call
Keep the call app open and use the floating transcript. Return to Interpreter to pause or stop the session.
Session input
Choose System, Mic, or Both.
Interpreter does not change sources during a session. Stop first if you need to choose another one.
System
Uses playback audio from an app that permits Android capture. Requires Android 10 or newer.
Mic
Uses the phone microphone without requesting screen or playback capture.
Both
Combines compatible app playback with microphone input in one session.
Troubleshooting
Fix common start problems.
System audio is unavailable
The call app may block Android playback capture. Choose Mic or use a supported browser or app.
The overlay does not appear
Allow Interpreter to display over other apps, then enable the caption overlay in Interpreter.
A permission prompt was canceled
Return to Interpreter, select Start again, and approve the prompt for the selected source.
A cellular call has no system audio
Android does not expose standard cellular call audio to System mode.
FAQs
Common questions.
Which Android version is required?
System and Both require Android 10 or newer. Android 14 is the primary device target.
Can Interpreter capture every Android app?
No. Android lets each app block playback capture. Protected media and apps that opt out are unavailable to System mode.
Will Interpreter switch sources if System fails?
No. Interpreter keeps the source you selected. Stop the session and choose another source.
Can System mode capture a standard cellular call?
No. Android does not expose standard cellular call audio through playback capture.
Where can I download the Android app?
Use the production APK download link on this page or the Interpreter for Android page.
Does Interpreter save my audio?
No. Interpreter never saves your audio. It is discarded after processing.