In our June roundup of WhatsApp features, we highlighted that the messaging app was developing a voice transcription feature for Android. This new feature allows users to view the content of a voice message as text. With the latest Android beta update, some WhatsApp users have begun receiving the voice message transcription feature.
First identified by WABetaInfo, this feature comes with WhatsApp Beta for Android v2.24.15.5 and is currently being rolled out to a limited number of users. Although we updated the messaging app to the latest beta version, we did not receive the feature on our device and were unable to test it.
To use this feature, you’ll need to download a language pack, allowing the app to transcribe voice messages into text. Currently, the supported languages are English, Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, Russian, and Hindi.
Based on the screenshots, the feature seems very similar to Google’s implementation of voice message transcriptions in their Messages app.
Voice messages will remain end-to-end encrypted as all transcription occurs on the device, likely the reason the app requires you to download a language pack. The feature is still in beta, so it might not be released soon, but it could arrive later this year.
What are your thoughts on the voice message transcription feature on Android? Would you find this feature useful? Personally, I can think of a few scenarios, such as when I’m commuting and receive a voice message from my family that I’d rather not listen to in a crowded metro. Let us know in the comments below.
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