WhatsApp is currently in the process of developing a new feature that could transform the way users interact using voice notes on Android smartphones. The feature, aimed at transcribing voice messages, has been spotted in the latest Android beta version of the popular messaging app.
Using the speech recognition capabilities native to smartphones, WhatsApp will process voice notes received and sent by the app. The transcribed text will then be displayed directly in the chat window, offering users the option to read the message instead of listening to it.
This development is particularly beneficial in situations where listening to voice messages is not feasible. Additionally, it promises improved accessibility for users with hearing impairments, allowing them to utilize WhatsApp’s voice note feature more effectively.
WABetaInfo, a feature tracker specializing in WhatsApp updates, uncovered this new development within WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.7.8. Although the feature is still under development, WABetaInfo has provided insights into its potential functionality through a screenshot.
The screenshot reveals a pop-up card explaining the process of enabling voice note transcripts on smartphones. It notifies users of the need to download approximately 150MB of new app data to access this feature.
According to reports from WABetaInfo, this feature improves accessibility not only for users with hearing impairments but also for those in noisy environments where listening to audio isn’t possible. Additionally, users can conveniently transcribe lengthy voice messages they receive, which they might not have time or desire to listen to fully.
WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.7.11 update is rolling out on the Play Store.
Discuss about new features and bugs below, while waiting for an article! 👇🏻#WhatsAppBeta #Android pic.twitter.com/kxR1G19oBq— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) March 20, 2024
WhatsApp assures users that the transcription process will occur locally on the device. This is essential for maintaining the platform’s end-to-end encryption for messages. This ensures that even without an active data connection, voice notes already downloaded can be transcribed without any problems.
WhatsApp began testing a similar feature back in May 2023 with the release of version 23.9.0.70 of WhatsApp beta for iOS. This feature, available to iOS users, also includes language packs for transcription in various languages. Moreover, transcripts are indexed like regular messages, enabling users to search through them effortlessly.
As WhatsApp continues to refine this feature, users can expect a significant enhancement to their messaging experience, offering greater accessibility and convenience.
The exact date when WhatsApp for Android will introduce its voice message transcription feature is not known yet. However, many see its upcoming release as a significant improvement in making the platform easier to use and more accessible.
