WhatsApp tests voice-to-text messaging feature for Android users

WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new voice-to-text feature for Android that could give users another way to compose messages without manually typing them or sending a voice recording.

The upcoming tool was reportedly spotted in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.37.8. According to WABetaInfo, the feature is still being developed and has not yet been released to beta testers.

The feature is expected to add a dedicated microphone-style option to the chat bar. When users select it, they will be able to speak their message while WhatsApp processes their words and displays a “Listening...” status.

Once the speech has been converted into text, users will reportedly be able to read through the message, make any necessary changes and then send it as a regular text message.

Unlike a traditional voice note, the recipient would not receive an audio recording. Instead, they would only see the text generated from the user's speech. The feature is reportedly being designed to work across individual conversations, group chats and channels.

Offline Voice-to-Text Support

One of the potentially notable aspects of the feature is its expected ability to work without an internet connection. WhatsApp may rely on language packs downloaded to the device to process spoken messages locally.

This approach could allow users to dictate messages even when they are offline, provided the necessary language pack has already been installed.

The technology would build on WhatsApp's existing voice-message transcription system, which already supports on-device processing through downloaded language packs.

However, the feature remains experimental, and several details could change before a wider rollout. WhatsApp has not announced an official release date, and the final position or appearance of the new button could also be different from what is currently being tested.

For now, the voice-to-text option appears to be limited to development on Android, with no confirmation about when—or whether—it will be introduced to the wider user base.