WhatsApp adds the ability to convert voice messages to text for Android

In the June WhatsApp features list, it was mentioned that the messaging app will launch a voice-to-text feature for Android. This feature allows users to view voice message content as text.

First spotted by WABetaInfo, the feature arrived with WhatsApp Beta for Android v2.24.15.5 and is currently rolling out to a limited number of users.

To use this feature, you will have to download a language pack so the app can convert voice messages to text. Currently, only 5 languages ​​are supported: English, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, and Hindi.

If you look at the screenshot, this feature looks quite similar to how Google implemented the voice message transcription feature on its Messages app.

Voice messages will remain end-to-end encrypted because all voice-to-text conversion happens on the device. This is probably why the app forces users to download a language pack in the first place. The feature is still in beta so don't expect it to roll out anytime soon, at least not until the end of the year.

What do you think about the voice message-to-text feature on Android? Do you think it will be helpful? Honestly, it might work in some situations, like when I'm at work and receive a voice message from my family that I don't want anyone else to hear. Let's wait and see what this feature will look like in the near future!

Lesley Montoya

Update 13 July 2024