WhatsApp Unveils New Voice Chat Feature for Large Group Conversations

Highlights

• WhatsApp introduces a voice chat feature for large groups with silent notifications.
• Users can join or leave the voice chat at any time with a simple tap.
• Feature supports multitasking with text messaging during voice chats.
• Available for groups of 33 to 128 members, ensuring end-to-end encryption for privacy.

WhatsApp has introduced a new voice chat feature tailored for large group conversations, enhancing user experience with seamless communication in groups.

The voice chat will automatically end if everyone leaves the chat or if no one joins the first or last person in the chat for 60 minutes.

This feature is designed to be less disruptive, as it does not ring each group member individually when a voice chat is started.
Instead, participants receive a silent notification, allowing them to join the chat at their discretion.

Users can easily exit and re-enter the voice chat. If someone needs to step away, they can leave by tapping the chat bubble and rejoin later by tapping it again.

This makes the feature flexible for those who may need to attend to other tasks briefly.

To initiate a voice chat, users tap the phone icon in the top right corner of the group chat and select ‘Start Voice Chat.’

Group members are then notified and invited to join. Participants in the chat are displayed on a banner at the bottom of the screen, and to leave the chat, users simply tap the Red Cross button.

The new feature is particularly user-friendly for larger groups, supporting multitasking by allowing users to control the call and send text messages simultaneously.

It is initially available for groups with 33 to 128 members on iOS and Android devices, with smaller groups continuing to use the existing group voice call feature.

The voice chats are end-to-end encrypted for privacy and security.

Note that this feature will only function on the user’s primary device.
Group members not in the voice chat can still view the profiles of those participating from the chat header and the Calls tab.

FAQs

What is the new voice chat feature in WhatsApp?

WhatsApp’s new voice chat feature allows users in large groups to have live conversations without disturbing each member with a ringing notification. Instead, users receive a silent alert and can choose to join the chat as they wish.

How does the new feature improve group chats in WhatsApp?

The feature enhances group chats by allowing users to enter and exit the conversation seamlessly. It’s designed for user convenience, especially for those who may be busy or prefer not to be disturbed, making group interactions more flexible.

Can users multitask while using the new voice chat feature on WhatsApp?

Yes, the new voice chat feature on WhatsApp allows users to multitask. They can continue to send text messages while being part of a voice chat, making it convenient for users who need to communicate in multiple ways simultaneously.

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