WhatsApp Voice Message Transcription Feature Set to Get Major Update
- VIDHI AVTR
- 3 hours ago
- 5 min read
WhatsApp, the globe's biggest instant messaging platform, is making headlines once more with its newer, innovative upgrades. Having debuted the voice message transcription feature late last year, in November of 2024, WhatsApp now appears to be taking it even further. Its new update testing currently on iOS devices is for users to take better control of, and choose their own option of, the way voice messages get transcribed.
In this blog post, we cover all you need to know about this new WhatsApp update, how the voice message transcription feature works, what changes are being tested, and what it means for your privacy and overall experience.
What Is WhatsApp’s Voice Message Transcription Feature?
The voice message transcription feature of WhatsApp enables users to translate audio messages into text. This is especially helpful when users are in a position where they cannot hear a voice note – such as during meetings, on public transport, or in noisy places. The transcription makes it convenient to read the message content without playing it out loud.
By default, this feature enhances accessibility so that users with hearing loss or those who like reading more than listening remain connected.
When Was the Feature Introduced?
WhatsApp initially introduced the voice message transcription feature in November 2024. The feature, at that point, permitted users to select from 41 languages supported by the feature, and upon selection of a language, receive text versions of incoming voice messages in that selected language.
The initial rollout, though, lacked sufficient controls once activated, each voice message received would be transcribed automatically.
Also Read: WhatsApp Will Soon Let Users Share Status Updates Directly as Stories on Instagram and Facebook
What’s New in the Update?
Now, nearly five months later, WhatsApp is testing major enhancements to the transcription feature especially for iPhone users.
WhatsApp is making a considerate change when it comes to voice message transcriptions. Currently, all voice messages you receive are automatically transcribed which can sometimes be a bit too much. Not everyone requires a text copy of every single voice note, right? That's why WhatsApp is now developing a more adaptable approach, as per WABetaInfo.
Coming up soon, too, is manual control over transcriptions. Rather than having every voice message auto-transcribed, you'll get to decide whether you want on-all-messages or only-on-selected-messages transcription. If you hate clutter and would rather only transcribe when required, this fresh setting is really going to change the game for you.
And here’s the best part WhatsApp is also adding an in-message transcription button! In manual mode, a simple button will appear right inside the voice message bubble. Just tap it, and the app will instantly generate a transcription for that particular message. No digging through settings or menus just one tap, and you’re good to go. It’s all about giving users more control while keeping the experience smooth and intuitive.
How the Transcription Works on iPhone
The update is currently under development for iPhones running iOS 16 and newer.
When users request a transcription by tapping the new button:
The audio is processed locally on the device
Apple’s on-device language model handles the transcription
No voice message is uploaded to external servers
This not only speeds up the transcription process but also ensures that your privacy is fully protected.
Supported Languages and Operating Systems
Although WhatsApp originally had 41 languages that could be transcribed, it's not yet clear if this list will be longer after the new update.
The feature is so far only available on iOS, but the hope is that Android support will come at a later time when the iOS version is stable and released fully.
End-to-End Encryption
Privacy has always been among WhatsApp's greatest commitments, and that promise is not going to change anytime in the near future even after the addition of voice message transcriptions. As with your ordinary messages, calls, and media, this feature is also totally secured with end-to-end encryption.
Here's the good news: your voice messages aren't sent to any outside servers for transcription. Rather, it all takes place on-device using Apple's secure on-device AI model. So even WhatsApp can't see what's being transcribed. It's all done locally, protecting your private conversations from curious eyes.
This not only protects your privacy but also ensures that the feature stays compliant with strict data protection laws like the GDPR and Apple’s App Store guidelines. So, if you’re someone who’s cautious about how your data is used or shared this is a win.
Who Can Access the Update?
Now you are probably thinking: When can I test it out? Well, this new transcription control feature is already being rolled out to beta testers through Apple's TestFlight program. As of now, only a few users have seen it but don't panic, more beta testers will receive it soon.
If you're already enrolled in WhatsApp's iOS beta program, watch your app updates. The feature may be on its way to you in the next few days or weeks. And if you're not in the beta yet, you might consider joining it's always exciting to get a glimpse of what's on the horizon!
Global Availability Timeline
There is still no word yet from WhatsApp on a complete public release.
But looking at past beta releases, the update may become available to everyone within a few weeks or a couple of months at most, depending on feedback from testing and stability.
Keep monitoring the App Store or WhatsApp update notes to find out when the update becomes available for your device.
How to Enable or Use the New Controls (Once Available)
Once the update is rolled out, here’s how you can expect to access and use the feature:
Update WhatsApp to the latest version from the App Store.
Go to Settings > Chats > Voice Message Transcriptions.
Choose your preferred transcription mode:
Automatic – Transcribe all incoming voice messages
Manual – Transcribe only the ones you tap
For manual mode, look for the transcription button within the voice message bubble.
Tap it to generate and read the transcription.
Note: These steps may vary slightly depending on the final rollout.
WhatsApp’s Focus on Accessibility and Innovation
This feature is an extension of WhatsApp's overall vision of making the app more inclusive, secure, and easy to use.
From support for multiple devices to chat lock, and now even more advanced transcription capabilities, WhatsApp is continually evolving to serve the needs of modern users.
The voice message transcription capability is not just a nicety but also a vital accessibility feature for millions of people.
The addition of manual controls to the voice message transcription feature in WhatsApp represents a significant leap towards empowering users and inclusivity.
Apple's on-device processing, end-to-end encryption, and personalized settings further reinforce WhatsApp as the leader in secure and smart messaging solutions.
As the update is released slowly to iOS beta testers and later to the general public, iPhone users can expect more control, improved usability, and a more personalized messaging experience.
Wait for more updates, and if you haven't yet, join WhatsApp's beta program to experience new features before anyone else.
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