WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that will enable voice note transcription for Android users. This innovative tool will utilize the speech recognition capabilities of smartphones to transcribe voice messages sent and received within the app, displaying the text directly in the chat interface. Such a feature could prove to be invaluable when listening to a voice note isn’t an option and is expected to enhance accessibility for users with hearing impairments by allowing them to utilize the voice notes function effectively.
The feature was identified by WABetaInfo, which noted its inclusion in the Android beta version 2.24.7.8. While the functionality is still under development, meaning beta testers currently cannot access it, the site has revealed a concept image showing how the feature may function when made available.
The screenshot shared by WABetaInfo outlines the functionality of the feature once it launches. Users will receive a notification indicating that they must download 150MB of new data to their devices in order to activate voice note transcription.
Moreover, WhatsApp will clarify that on-device speech recognition will be employed, ensuring that user privacy is upheld and that end-to-end encryption remains intact for all messages. This capability indicates that previously downloaded voice notes could still be transcribed offline.
It is important to note that WhatsApp has been trialing this transcription feature since May 2023 with the release of version 23.9.0.70 for WhatsApp beta on iOS. The app downloads specific language packs on user devices, facilitating transcription in multiple languages. Users on iOS can also search through the transcribed text, as it is indexed similar to standard messages, according to findings from WABetaInfo.
