WhatsApp rolls out voice message transcriptions to Android beta

WhatsApp is introducing a new feature in its Android beta app, version 2.24.15.5, that allows users to transcribe voice messages. This highly anticipated feature, previously available to iOS users since May 2023, is now available to Android beta testers. It promises to improve the user experience by converting audio messages to text, making it easier to understand long or difficult-to-hear messages.

Supported languages

The voice message transcription feature supports five languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, and Hindi. Users must download an additional language data pack to ensure transcriptions are generated on their devices, preserving privacy and security. This on-device processing ensures that all transcriptions remain end-to-end encrypted, in line with WhatsApp’s commitment to user privacy.

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User experience and accessibility

The transcription feature is especially useful in situations where listening to voice messages is not possible. It allows users to read the messages instead, which is more convenient in noisy environments or during meetings. Additionally, it helps in better understanding of long voice messages, allowing users to quickly grasp the content without having to listen to the audio multiple times.

Availability and deployment

According to WABetaInfo, the feature is currently available to select beta testers through the Google Play Beta Program. The rollout appears to be gradual, with not all beta users getting access to it right away. Users can enable the feature by going to the Chats option in the app’s Settings, where they will be prompted to download the necessary language data pack.

Future and expansion prospects

WhatsApp has not yet announced a specific release date for the stable version of this feature on Android. However, given its availability in beta, it should reach the general user base in the coming weeks. The company also plans to expand the range of supported languages, potentially improving the usability of the feature in different regions.

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In addition to the voice message transcription feature, WhatsApp is reportedly testing a dedicated video notes mode for its camera interface. This mode will reportedly introduce a button to record video notes, positioned next to the existing Video and Photo options in the camera interface. This new feature has been spotted in beta versions for both Android and iOS platforms, which is a testament to WhatsApp’s continued efforts to improve its multimedia capabilities.