WhatsApp continues to strive for innovation and improvement, having recently enhanced its functionality by enabling the transmission of more than 100 photos per transmission and upgrading its Status feature. The latest addition that has generated excitement among users is the capability of converting voice memos into text.
According to WABetaInfo, this new feature is still in the process of being developed, but is expected to be made available in beta form soon. While some of its competitors offer similar functionality, it may only be accessible through paid versions.
In contrast, WhatsApp is developing its own solution and has reportedly been testing this feature on iOS devices through the use of Apple services, instead of relying on third-party applications for transcription. There was a temporary halt in the development process, which is not uncommon, as many preliminary functions are not always carried over to the final release following testing.
Now, the voice memo transcription feature has resurfaced in the latest WhatsApp beta update for iOS, version 23.3.0.73. The introduction screen for the new feature will inform users of situations where transcription may not be possible, such as when the words are unrecognizable or in a language other than the one installed within the app.
It is important to note that the transcripts will be generated locally on the device, with neither WhatsApp nor Apple having access to them. To utilize this feature, users will be required to download the appropriate language packs. WABetaInfo speculates that this feature may only be accessible on newer versions of iOS.
The public release of this feature is imminent, with the typical rollout starting in public beta before being stabilized if all goes according to plan. Until then, we eagerly await its arrival.