Voice message transcripts come to WhatsApp

WhatsApp finally offers transcripts of voice messages. The function is already being beta tested in several regions.

Accordingly WABetaInfoSome beta testers already have access to the new features and can transcribe messages in several languages, including English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese (Brazil) and Russian.

And the best part: WhatsApp has implemented the feature in a way that protects privacy, the outlet says:

In fact, these voice transcripts are generated on the device, so no one else can hear your voice notes or read the transcripts. These users can now download any of the available language data packs, including English, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, and Hindi, with more languages ​​potentially supported in the future. Since WhatsApp offers data packs for these 5 languages, it suggests that this feature may currently only be available to a limited number of users in some countries where the respective languages ​​are widely spoken or supported.

As the outlet points out, the feature should be a boon for users who prefer to quickly skim or read a message rather than listen to it in full:

This feature is also convenient for users who receive long voice memos, as they can quickly read the transcriptions instead of having to listen to the entire audio message, which helps them better understand the content. It’s worth noting that transcriptions provide a quick reference even when searching the voice memo later, allowing users to find and review the content of voice memos without having to replay the audio.

Some users may be able to access the new feature by installing the beta version via the Play Store, but otherwise the feature should be rolled out to users in the coming weeks.