WhatsApp beta introduces voice message transcription feature

The latest WhatsApp beta update for Android is bringing a highly anticipated voice message transcription feature to all Android devices, a function previously limited to Google Messages on Pixel phones.

According to WABetaInfo, the WhatsApp beta v2.24.15.5 introduces voice message transcription, making it available in several languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and Hindi. The feature is not yet live on all test devices.

To use the transcription feature, users need to download the appropriate language pack. The audio is then analyzed locally on the device, ensuring privacy as voice messages remain encrypted. This process is similar to how Google Pixel phones handle voice message transcriptions within Google Messages, providing a text chat box beneath the audio waveform.

While the feature is currently being rolled out to a small group of beta testers in select regions, it promises to increase accessibility and convenience, especially for users unable to listen to long voice notes.

WhatsApp's move to test and potentially roll out this feature widely is a significant step, especially given that many other cross-platform messaging services lack similar functionality despite extensive AI integration.