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WhatsApp Brings Voice Message Transcribing to Android Users

We noted that WhatsApp was developing a voice transcript feature for Android in our list of June features. With the use of this capability, users may see a voice message's text content. Some WhatsApp users have begun to get audio message transcription with the most recent Android beta version.

This functionality, which WABetaInfo first noticed, is available with WhatsApp Beta for Android v2.24.15.5 and is now being rolled out to a select group of users. We upgraded the messaging app to the most recent beta version, however we were unable to try it out since we didn't get the functionality on our mobile.

WhatsApp Beta Voice Message Feature
Picture Credit: WABetaInfo

You must download a language pack in order for the app to translate the spoken message into text in order to utilize this function. Currently, There are just five supported languages: Hindi, English, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), and Russian.

The functionality seems to be quite similar to Google's implementation of voice message transcriptions inside their Messages app, based on the images.

Message Transcripts in Google Messages
transcription of voice notes using Google Messages

Voice communications will continue to be encrypted end-to-end as long as the device is used for all transcription operations. This is most likely the reason the software first requests that you download a language pack. Although it may not launch anytime soon—the functionality is currently in beta—it may do so later in the year.

How do you feel about Android's voice message transcripts feature? Do you believe you'll use it in any way? To be honest, there are a few instances that come to mind, such as when I get a voicemail from my family while traveling and I would rather not listen to it on a public transportation system. Post your ideas and worries in the space provided for comments below.

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