WhatsApp is currently testing a new feature that will convert voice messages into text. This new feature was spotted in the source code of the latest beta version of the app for Android systems. According to the code, activating the voice message-to-text feature will require downloading approximately 150 MB of additional data for the app, likely related to voice recognition software within the system.
The source code indicates that WhatsApp will convert audio into text on the device itself without relying on external servers to maintain user privacy. Furthermore, the written texts will be encrypted with end-to-end encryption, just like messages and calls within the app.
This feature will be particularly useful as it allows users to know the content of voice messages when they are unable to play sound and listen and for those with hearing impairments.
WhatsApp has already been testing this feature on the beta version for iPhone since the end of last year.
