- WhatsApp voice chats is for large groups.
- This feature lets you start a voice call without disturbing everyone.
- Anyone can join and leave the voice chat anytime.
WhatsApp has been testing voice chats for some time now. This feature is for group chats to make voice calls but without disturbing everyone. It’s more of a quiet way to start voice calls, and with anyone who wants to join it. WhatsApp voice chats was in beta but it has now started rolling out to everyone on Android and iOS.
WhatsApp voice chats now rolling out
The new WhatsApp feature is available with the latest version of the app on the Play Store, and App Store, according to WABetaInfo. Since it just started rolling out, it might take some time before the feature reaches everyone. If you have updated WhatsApp on your phone, you can follow the steps below to check if the feature is available.
- Open WhatsApp, and a group chat.
- Look for a wave icon just next to the group chat name.
- Tap on it to start a voice chat.
- The voice chat interface will be visible on top of the group chat.
- 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. So even if you haven’t joined the voice chat you can still who’s part of it. 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. This feature is however, meant only for large groups with 33 to 128 members.
WhatsApp voice chats can be compared with Twitter Spaces and Clubhouse where someone starts an audio session and anyone can join to listen and speak. It’s more inclusive on WhatsApp though, and it can be helpful as not everyone might be required for a group voice call. And since the call gets disconnected after no activity for 60 minutes, it’s easier to manage.
