WhatsApp is currently piloting a new functionality for Android users that could enable voice message transcriptions, according to recent reports. This feature was identified by a tracker in the beta version of the WhatsApp app, suggesting that users may soon be able to convert their sent and received voice messages into text. A similar capability was previously reported for the WhatsApp beta on iOS and is now reportedly making its debut on Android devices.
Voice Message Transcriptions
WABetaInfo, a feature tracking platform for WhatsApp, indicated that users might see a new banner below voice messages, prompting them to request a transcription for the audio they sent or received. The feature has been noticed in version 2.24.15.5 of the WhatsApp beta for Android.
This transcription feature is anticipated to be advantageous in scenarios where users cannot listen to voice recordings. It may also aid in comprehending long voice messages, as users will have the option to read transcriptions instead. The functionality reportedly supports five languages: English, Hindi, Brazilian Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.
According to the feature tracker, the voice message transcription capability is currently accessible to a select group of beta testers running the latest version of WhatsApp for Android via the Google Play Beta program. Staff at Gadgets 360 were unable to confirm the feature’s availability in the WhatsApp beta for Android, indicating it might be rolling out gradually.
Other Features
In addition to the transcription functionality, WhatsApp is testing another new feature—a dedicated mode for video notes within the camera interface. This update could introduce a new button specifically for recording video notes, which would sit alongside the existing options for video and photo captures. The feature has been reported in the beta versions of WhatsApp across both Android and iOS platforms.
