WhatsApp updated with new voice messages

Messaging service WhatsApp has updated its mobile apps with support for one-press voice messaging. The new feature, activated by holding down the microphone icon, allows short message clips to be recorded and exchanged as part of a conversation through the instant messaging service.

Effectively a touchscreen-based push-to-talk feature, the new voice messaging button in WhatsApp records when it's pressed down, and to dismiss your own message you simply swipe it away. It's also possible to listen to voice messages privately by holding the handset up to your head — WhatsApp detects the change and switches speakers accordingly.

The new feature is rolling out on Android, as well as iOS, Windows Phone, BlackBerry and even Symbian devices.

Source: WhatsApp

Alex Dobie
Executive Editor

Alex was with Android Central for over a decade, producing written and video content for the site, and served as global Executive Editor from 2016 to 2022.