WhatsApp Introduces Instant Voice-to-Text Transcription Feature

Meta-owned messaging app WhatsApp has launched a new feature that instantly converts voice and audio messages into text transcripts. This update is designed to enhance accessibility and convenience for users in various situations.

The new transcription feature is especially useful when users need to check messages discreetly, without playing audio aloud. It also comes in handy when background noise makes voice messages difficult to hear.

Moreover, the feature is a significant step toward inclusivity, benefiting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing by providing an easy way to read voice messages instead of relying on audio.

How the Voice-to-Text Feature Works?

According to the WhatsApp blog, the transcription feature allows users to stay connected on the go by converting voice messages into text. Importantly, transcripts are generated directly on the user’s device, ensuring complete privacy. No one, including WhatsApp, can access or read these transcripts, as they are protected with end-to-end encryption.

To transcribe a voice message, users simply need to:

1. Long-press on the voice message.
2. Tap the “Transcribe” button.

Language Support and Future Expansion

Currently, the transcription feature supports four languages:

• English
• Portuguese
• Spanish
• Russian

However, WhatsApp has confirmed that more languages will be added in the coming months to make the feature even more accessible.

How to Enable Voice Message Transcription?

The feature is disabled by default, so users must enable it manually by following these steps:

1. Open WhatsApp Settings.
2. Navigate to “Chats.”
3. Enable or disable “Voice Message Transcripts.”
4. Select your preferred transcription language.

Alternatively, users can enable transcriptions by accessing voice transcription and tapping “Get Started” when prompted. After selecting a transcript language, they can either set it up immediately or wait for Wi-Fi to download the necessary language data.

How to View Transcripts of Voice Messages?

To read the text version of a voice message:

1. Turn on your device.
2. Tap and hold the voice message.
3. Select “Transcribe” to generate the transcript.

With this new feature, WhatsApp continues to improve its user experience by providing greater accessibility, privacy, and ease of communication.