# Translation

Linnet can translate session transcripts via the DeepL API. Translation is available on all tiers; the difference is where the API key comes from.

## How to translate a session

1. Open a session from [Session History](session-history.md) or after ending a live session
2. Click **Translate**
3. Select the target language
4. Linnet sends the transcript text (not audio) to DeepL and returns a translated version

The translated transcript is saved alongside the original. Tone labels are preserved and displayed against the translated text.

## Tier differences

| Tier | DeepL key source |
|------|-----------------|
| Free (BYOK) | Your own DeepL API key (set `DEEPL_API_KEY` in `.env`) |
| Paid | CF-managed key, no setup needed |

BYOK = bring your own key. DeepL's free tier covers 500,000 characters per month — enough for most personal use.

## Getting a free DeepL API key

1. Go to [deepl.com](https://www.deepl.com/en/pro/change-plan) and sign up for a free account
2. Navigate to **Account** then **DeepL API** and copy your Authentication Key
3. Open your Linnet `.env` file and add:
   ```dotenv
   DEEPL_API_KEY=your-authentication-key-here
   ```
4. Restart Linnet

## Supported languages

Translation supports all languages in DeepL's catalog. The target language list in Linnet's UI reflects DeepL's current supported outputs. See [DeepL's supported languages](https://support.deepl.com/hc/en-us/articles/360019925219) for the full list.

## Privacy note

Translation sends transcript text to DeepL's servers. Audio is never transmitted. If your session contains sensitive content, review DeepL's [data privacy policy](https://www.deepl.com/en/privacy/) before using translation.

For fully private operation, skip translation or run a local translation model — self-hosted translation support is on the roadmap.