WhatsApp will soon transcribe your voice messages

WhatsApp is introducing a new transcription feature that makes it easier (and more convenient) to communicate using voice messaging. The feature is rolling out globally to Android and iOS users “in the coming weeks” according to WhatsApp, and will automatically create a text version of voice clips under the message for moments when you’re unable to listen to them.

This finds a great balance between the pros and cons of voice messages, which are easier to record than typing out lengthy conversations but can be cumbersome to listen to, especially on the go or in loud environments. Now you get the best of both worlds, but only voice message recipients who have the feature enabled can see the transcripts.

The voice message transcripts are generated directly on the device so that “no one else, not even WhatsApp, can hear or read your personal messages,” WhatsApp said in its announcement. The feature will be disabled by default once it rolls out, and can be turned on by clicking on “Chats” within the WhatsApp settings, and then “Voice message transcripts.”

Language support will depend on which OS you’re using: English, Portuguese, Spanish, Russian, and Hindi will initially be available for Android users, with iOS having a much wider selection listed on its support page. WhatsApp says language support will be expanded in the coming months, however.