Highlights
- Introduction of a new feature called “voice chats” in WhatsApp.
- A new voice waveform icon representing the feature spotted in the beta version.
- The feature allows users to join audio conversations without an immediate need to respond, similar to Discord’s voice channels.
- Voice chats can accommodate more than 32 participants, suggesting large-scale group interactions.
In an attempt to enrich the communication experience for its users, WhatsApp is actively testing a new and intriguing feature known as “voice chats.”
Different from the existing voice call functionality, this feature aims to provide a more seamless and non-intrusive way for group members to engage in audio conversations.
The concept of voice chats within WhatsApp bears a notable resemblance to a feature found in Discord, a popular communication platform often used by gamers and online communities.
In Discord, users can join dedicated voice channels where ongoing audio conversations take place.
Participants can easily hop in and out of these channels, engaging in discussions without the need for a formal call setup.
Similarly, WhatsApp’s voice chats allow users to join and participate in ongoing audio discussions without the immediate need to respond, reflecting a more casual and flexible approach to group communication.
This similarity suggests a convergence of functionalities across different communication platforms, adapting features that resonate with users’ preferences.
This trend has especially been prevalent in properties owned by Meta.
WhatsApp Voice Chats: The New Icon
The voice chats feature first became evident with the appearance of a new icon, representing a voice waveform, within WhatsApp group chats in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android 2.23.16.19 update.
This icon serves as a gateway to the voice chat interface, allowing users to initiate or join audio conversations.
How WhatsApp Voice Chats Differ from Group Calls
Unlike the traditional ringing notification for voice calls, voice chats notify users subtly, allowing them to join the conversation at their convenience.
This eliminates the urgency typically associated with voice calls. However, voice chats also come with a time-bound feature.
If not joined within 60 minutes, the session will end, though users can initiate a new session later.
Who can access the WhatsApp Voice Chats?
Some users who have installed the latest WhatsApp beta for Android updates from the Google Play Store already have access to the new voice chats feature, and it will be rolled out to more individuals in the coming days.
Interestingly, this seems to be part of a broader release, and even some users on the stable version of the app might have the opportunity to explore this new functionality.
Scale and Scope of WhatsApp Voice Chats
One of the striking attributes of the voice chat feature is its ability to accommodate a large number of participants, potentially more than 32.
While this number might change upon official release, it hints at the capability for large-scale group interactions and lively discussions.
WhatsApp’s experimentation with voice chats reflects an ongoing commitment to enhancing user experience and providing more convenient communication tools.
With a unique approach to group interactions, voice chats are designed to operate discreetly and support extensive participation.
As we await the official launch, the voice chats feature stands as an exciting addition to WhatsApp’s array of functionalities, promising to redefine how we engage in group conversations.
FAQs
Ques) What is the new ‘voice chats’ feature in WhatsApp?
Ans) Voice chats is a feature allowing users to join ongoing audio discussions within groups without an immediate need to respond, providing a more relaxed interaction experience.
Ques) How are voice chats in WhatsApp similar to Discord’s voice channels?
Ans) Like Discord’s voice channels, WhatsApp’s voice chats enable users to join and leave audio conversations at will without requiring a formal call setup, reflecting a more casual and flexible communication approach.
Ques) Who can access the new voice chats feature, and when will it be rolled out?
Ans) Some users of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android have access to voice chats, with a broader rollout expected in the coming days. Even users on the stable version might get access to this feature.
Ques) How do voice chats differ from traditional group voice calls on WhatsApp?
Ans) Unlike traditional group voice calls that trigger audible ringtone notifications, voice chats operate discreetly with subtle notifications and end if not joined within 60 minutes, promoting more relaxed interaction.
Also Read: WhatsApp Beta Now Allows Users Start a Group Call With Up To 15 People