- WhatsApp has started testing voice chats in groups.
- This feature lets group chat participants get on a voice chat without having to call every member.
- The feature seems to be similar to Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces.
WhatsApp has been experimenting with some interesting features lately. It recently introduced video messages and landscape mode for video calls. The messaging service is now testing voice chats on the app. This may sound confusing at first since the feature has been present for individual chats, but this new one is being tested for groups. The feature will allow group chat participants to easily talk to each other without having to make a voice call every time. It sounds similar to Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces.
WhatsApp voice chats rolling out to beta users
The new WhatsApp feature is rolling out to Android beta users with the latest update version 2.23.16.19. Voice chats on WhatsApp are available on group chats, and these can be started and joined by any participant in the group. According to a screenshot shared by WABetaInfo, there’s a wave icon just next to the group chat name, and tapping on it will start a voice chat.
The voice chat interface will be visible on top of the group chat, and any member can join in and drop out at any point in time. WhatsApp will also show the number of people connected on the voice chat. If the voice chat is left empty for 60 minutes then it will automatically turn off. WhatsApp also shares a silent notification in the group whenever a new voice chat is created.
At present, this feature is reportedly available only to groups with more than 32 participants. But it could be compatible with groups with less than 32 members as well. Since the feature is in testing, there could be some limitations.
WhatsApp voice chats seem like a useful option since it makes it easier for participants to hop in or off a quick call. With this option, only people who are required or interested can easily join the voice chat. This feature is also similar to Twitter Spaces and Clubhouse where someone starts an audio session and anyone can join to listen and speak.
For now, WhatsApp voice chats are available in beta, and only for Android users. There’s no word on when the stable version of this feature will be rolled out.
