WhatsApp Developing New Voice-to-Text Dictation Feature for Chats
WhatsApp is testing a new dictation feature in its Android beta that converts spoken voice messages into text before sending them as standard messages.
WhatsApp is developing a new feature that allows users to dictate voice messages and convert them into text before sending them in chats, according to WABetaInfo.
Discovered in Android beta version 2.26.37.8, the tool integrates directly into the chat bar with a dedicated button. Users can tap the button to enter listening mode, speak their message, have it transcribed into text, and send it as a standard message. The feature is expected to support private chats, groups, and channels.
Recipients will receive standard text without any audio playback or indication that the message was originally dictated. WhatsApp plans to utilize the same language packs currently used for voice message transcription, ensuring local processing on the device after a one-time download without transmitting audio to external servers. This allows offline functionality and retains content on the device until sending.
The feature is currently in development and not yet accessible to beta testers, with no official release date announced.
