WhatsApp tests voice message transcription feature for Android devices

WEB DESK: WhatsApp is expanding its testing of a promising feature that enhances user experience by transcribing voice notes into text. Initially introduced in the iOS version of the app and reported by WABetaInfo last month, this feature is now being trialled in the Android version as well.

The latest beta iteration of WhatsApp for Android, version 2.24.7.8, introduces this functionality, allowing users to convert voice messages into readable text.

This innovation proves particularly useful in situations where listening to audio is impractical but reading text is feasible.

As depicted in a screenshot shared by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp will inform users of this feature through a pop-up notification, prompting them to “Read before you listen with transcripts.”

Enabling this option necessitates downloading approximately 150MB of additional app data, with WhatsApp ensuring end-to-end encryption for the transcribed content using the device’s speech recognition capabilities.

Upon clicking the Enable button, the app will proceed to download the necessary resources and activate the feature.

The timing of the feature’s integration into the stable version of WhatsApp remains undisclosed.

It is expected to occur following a thorough testing period, which could span several weeks, ensuring the feature’s seamless integration and functionality.

Web Desk