WhatsApp users will soon be able to record minute-long voice messages

WhatsApp has progressed beyond a traditional messaging app. Today, it hosts features that are fit for it to be a mainstream meeting app and it continues to introduce enhancement for better user experience.

In fact, the Meta-owned app is currently experimenting with a flurry of features, including changing its original chat colours, that could make their way to both iOS and Android smartphone users soon enough. 

A recent WABetaInfo post suggests that the instant messaging platform could also be testing minute-long audio messages for its status updates.

WhatsApp extended voice note feature: What's new?

A new update being tested by WhatsApp will soon allow users to upload a 60-second-long voice status update for their friends. The current version supports only up to 30 seconds.

However, the new change is being brought about to make sure users don’t have to split their audio messages in half while uploading them. WhatsApp mentions how in the long run this feature will promote engagement and make communication more convenient for individuals as well as small businesses.

How will the extended voice note feature work on WhatsApp?

The feature is currently only available for Android and iOS smartphone users who are enrolled in the beta programme. If you’re a WhatsApp beta user, you might want to check for recent updates before attempting to use the feature. Doing this will allow you to upload a longer voice note, as well as listen to other users who have uploaded their minute-long messages.

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These are a few steps you might have to follow to be able to successfully upload your audio status:

Step 1: Open WhatsApp on your smartphone and navigate to the Status page
Step 2: Tap on ‘Updates’, which will be a pencil icon at the bottom right corner of your screen
Step 3: Next, tap on the microphone icon on the Updates screen to begin recording your message
Step 4: Once through, you can go ahead and write a caption before you tap on Upload

Who can use the extended voice note feature on WhatsApp?

The feature is currently undergoing a beta test, and it is hard to tell when it will make its way to a larger audience. However, if you wish to try it out, you can always enroll yourself on to WhatsApp’s beta programme for new updates.

That said, it is best to keep in mind that beta versions may be prone to glitches and vulnerabilities, and it may be a while before others in your immediate circle can make the most of new features.