WhatsApp is reportedly piloting a new feature for Android devices that will enable users to engage in real-time voice conversations with Meta AI. According to various sources, this artificial intelligence feature is currently being rolled out to select beta testers, allowing users to initiate a voice chat directly or switch to voice mode within the chatbot’s interface. Notably, this feature is designed to maintain continuity, enabling conversations with the AI while WhatsApp remains active in the background.
As reported by WhatsApp feature tracker WABetaInfo, the voice chat functionality is part of the latest WhatsApp beta update for Android version 2.25.21.21. This development comes after the feature was initially mentioned in a report earlier this year, highlighting the company’s ongoing efforts to refine it.
Meta AI voice chat interface
Photo Credit: WABetaInfo
Screenshots from the feature tracker indicate that the voice chat option is versatile, offering several personalization settings. Users can initiate two-way voice conversations by accessing the chat interface and tapping the waveform icon. Additionally, they can adjust their Voice Preferences in the Settings menu to automatically enter voice mode when opening the chat, although this option is disabled by default and applies solely to the chat tab.
In contrast, when users navigate to the Call tab, the Meta AI icon is expected to switch to the waveform icon automatically, prompting a voice conversation by default. This adjustment appears to align with the functionality of the Call tab.
While in voice chat mode, users will also see suggested topics centrally displayed in the chat interface, which may assist in initiating conversations. The voice mode includes a collapse icon positioned at the top left, similar to how WhatsApp calls can be minimized, allowing users to continue their voice chat while using other applications.
WhatsApp reportedly provides several options for terminating the voice conversation. Users can click the X button at the bottom, exit the chat interface, or simply start typing in the message field to switch back to text mode. For those uncertain about whether the call is still active, a notification alert for the call or Android’s microphone indicator can be checked at any time.
