Meta AI potentially enhancing WhatsApp's voice capabilities: Insight into the possible functioning of the new chat feature
In a recent development, WhatsApp has begun testing a new feature that allows users to engage in real-time voice chats with Meta AI. This exciting update, currently available to select beta testers, is a part of WhatsApp beta version 2.25.21.21[1][2].
The voice chat feature, expected to reach general availability in several weeks, aims to provide a more natural, hands-free chat experience[2]. Users can initiate voice chats directly from the Chats tab by tapping the waveform icon or from the Calls tab, mimicking a traditional phone call[1][2].
Once initiated, the voice chat offers a consistent, background-friendly experience, allowing users to multitask without interrupting the conversation[1][2]. A noteworthy feature is the ability to mute the microphone and end the session at any time using on-screen controls[1][2].
The voice chat design is designed to make AI support more accessible and streamlined during daily activities such as reading, browsing, or taking notes. A collapse icon allows the session to continue running in the background, enabling users to interact with other apps while maintaining the voice conversation[1].
Moreover, the new voice interface on WhatsApp supports media sharing via quick-access icons for the camera and gallery, potentially paving the way for future updates that include support for additional file types in media sharing[1].
It is worth noting that the voice chat feature utilises Android's system-level microphone indicator, which displays a green dot in the status bar when the microphone is active[1].
Ashish Singh, the Chief Copy Editor at the platform, has been at the helm of wrangling tech jargon since 2020 and speaks fluent Geek[3]. He has been instrumental in shaping the narrative around this exciting new feature.
While an official timeline for the launch of the feature has yet to be announced, the ongoing beta suggests it is imminent within weeks from July 2025. The report does not mention any advertisements in the current paragraph.
[1] TechCrunch. (2025, July 26). WhatsApp is testing a new voice chat feature with Meta AI. Retrieved from https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/26/whatsapp-is-testing-a-new-voice-chat-feature-with-meta-ai/
[2] WABetaInfo. (2025, July 26). WhatsApp is testing a new feature for voice chat with Meta AI. Retrieved from https://wabetainfo.com/whatsapp-beta-for-android/whatsapp-beta-for-android-2-25-21-21-voice-chat-with-meta-ai/
[3] The Verge. (2020, October 1). Meet Ashish Singh, the tech journalist who speaks fluent Geek. Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/2020/10/1/21503776/ashish-singh-tech-journalist-geek-language-interview
Artificial Intelligence, integrated within the voice chat feature of WhatsApp, is expected to become more accessible and streamlined for various daily activities like reading, browsing, or taking notes. The voice chat design also includes an AI support system that can continue running in the background while users interact with other apps [1].
