WhatsApp, the Meta-owned messaging platform with over 3 billion users, has started rolling out a highly anticipated feature: voice message transcripts. This update allows users to convert voice messages into written text, making it easier to follow conversations when listening isn’t possible.
How Voice Message Transcripts Work
The feature, initially announced in November last year, uses on-device processing to ensure privacy. This means that the transcription happens directly on the user’s phone, preventing WhatsApp or any third party from accessing the audio. Once enabled, users can long-press a voice message, select “Transcribe” from the “More Options” menu, and see the text version appear next to the voice note.
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Supported Languages
At launch, WhatsApp officially supports English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Russian for transcription. While languages from South Asia and several other regions are not officially listed, the app can still transcribe voice notes in multiple languages, offering broader usability.
How to Enable Voice Message Transcripts
Activating the feature is simple:
- Open WhatsApp – Tap the three-dot menu in the top right corner.
- Go to Settings – Select “Settings” from the menu.
- Access Chats – Tap “Chats” to open chat-related settings.
- Enable Transcripts – Scroll down and turn on the “Voice Message Transcripts” option.
- Select a Language – Choose a preferred transcription language.
- Complete Setup – Ensure an active internet connection for setup.
Users can change the transcript language at any time by returning to the settings menu.
Global Rollout and Availability
The feature is being introduced gradually and will be fully accessible in the coming weeks. While it is currently available on Android devices, iOS users can expect the update soon. To access the new feature as soon as it arrives, users should keep their WhatsApp app updated from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Alongside voice message transcripts, WhatsApp has introduced other updates aimed at improving user convenience and organization.
Drafts Feature
The new “Drafts” feature allows users to save unsent messages. If a user starts typing but doesn’t send the message, WhatsApp will mark the chat with a bold green “Draft” label, ensuring they remember to finish and send it later. This feature is already available for most Android and iOS users.
Built-in Address Book & Custom Chat Lists
To help users manage their conversations more efficiently, WhatsApp has also introduced a built-in address book and custom chat lists. These updates aim to streamline navigation and improve accessibility within the app.
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WhatsApp’s latest updates are designed to make messaging more convenient, especially in situations where listening to voice messages isn’t possible. By allowing users to read transcriptions, save unsent messages, and organize chats more effectively, WhatsApp continues to improve the user experience.