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March 3, 2026 · 5 min read

How to Translate Zoom Calls in Real Time

Zoom is the default meeting platform for millions of people, but it has limited built-in translation. Seagull adds real-time translated subtitles to any Zoom call in three simple steps.

Step-by-step: translating a Zoom call

First, download and install Seagull on your Mac, Windows, or Linux desktop. Launch the app and select the language being spoken on the call as your source language, and your preferred language as the target. That is all the setup you need.

Second, join your Zoom meeting as you normally would. Seagull captures the system audio from Zoom automatically. Translated subtitles appear as a floating overlay on your screen within seconds of someone speaking. You can reposition the overlay anywhere on your display.

Seagull works with any app on your desktop. No browser extensions, no plugins, no setup wizard. Just download, pick your language, and start listening.

Why Seagull beats Zoom's built-in options

Zoom offers live transcription and basic captioning, but these features are limited to a few languages and do not translate between language pairs. Zoom's interpretation feature requires a paid plan and a dedicated human interpreter for each language channel.

Seagull works with any Zoom plan, including the free tier, and does not require a human interpreter. It supports 60+ languages for real-time translation and works independently of Zoom's built-in features. Only you need to install it, and other participants see no difference in their experience.

How to Get Started

1
Download Seagull

Available for Mac, Windows, and Linux. The app installs in seconds and requires no configuration.

2
Pick your language

Choose the language being spoken and the language you want to see. Seagull supports 40+ languages out of the box.

3
Start listening

Seagull will transcribe and translate audio from any app in real time. Captions appear in a small overlay on your screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a paid Zoom plan to use Seagull?

No. Seagull works independently of Zoom and captures system audio from your desktop. It works with any Zoom plan, including the free tier, and requires no Zoom plugins or add-ons.

Will other participants know I am using Seagull?

No. Seagull runs locally on your desktop and displays subtitles only on your screen. Other Zoom participants are not affected and do not see the subtitle overlay.

Download Seagull Free

Available for Mac, Windows, and Linux. 1 hour free trial included.