WhatsApp has initiated the rollout of an innovative voice chat feature that enhances group call experiences on its messaging platform. Unlike traditional group calls that ring users’ devices — which can be disruptive, especially across various time zones — this new voice chat option allows participants in a conversation to multitask within the app, similar to features offered by services like Slack and Discord.
The introduction of voice chats on Android was officially announced by WhatsApp through a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Monday. Users who have updated their app to the latest versions available on the Google Play Store and the App Store will have access to this functionality. When voice chats are activated within a group, members will notice an option to initiate a voice chat instead of the typical group call button.
To start a voice chat, users can click the new waveform icon situated at the top right of the group chat screen. This action will prompt a push notification to be sent to all group members, inviting them to join. Importantly, all group participants can view the profiles of those currently in the voice chat, and users can continue engaging with other aspects of WhatsApp, such as messaging members not involved in the voice chat.
The voice chat feature is designed for flexibility, allowing users to leave and rejoin the chat multiple times. The session will conclude once all participants exit, or if no one joins for an hour, or if there is only a single participant remaining.
According to WhatsApp’s announcement, the voice chat feature will initially be available to larger groups containing more than 32 members. The functionality aims to accommodate groups with participant counts ranging from 33 to 128. Importantly, the feature can only be accessed via a user’s primary device, as linked devices are currently unsupported.
