WhatsApp is introducing a new feature that brings group voice chats reminiscent of Discord:Here’s a breakdown of how it operates
WhatsApp, the widely-used instant messaging app, is set to introduce a novel feature reminiscent of Discord’s voice channels. This forthcoming feature, named ‘Voice chats,’ will enable participants within a group to partake in audio conversations. It distinguishes itself from the existing voice call or voice note functionalities.
As indicated by WABetaInfo, a trusted source for WhatsApp updates, this feature is currently accessible to a select group of users testing the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.23.16.19.
For those seeking clarification, the concept of voice chats bears resemblance to group calls; however, it deviates by discreetly notifying participants without initiating a ringing signal. Presently, the beta version imposes a participant limit of 32. Nevertheless, this number is subject to alteration upon the official release of the feature by WhatsApp.
Just like the way Twitter Spaces and voice channels in Discord function, individuals will have the flexibility to enter or exit the conversation at their convenience. Whenever someone starts a voice chat, the group icon in the chat list will transform into a waveform icon and display a ‘Connect’ button. Clicking on this button will grant you access to participate in the live discussion through a specialized interface.
While voice conversations will remain active for up to one hour after all participants leave, group members will have the flexibility to initiate voice chats whenever they wish. In comparison to ‘group calls’, voice chats won’t necessitate manual addition of participants. Just like other features on WhatsApp, voice chats will be secured with end-to-end encryption, though they won’t generate a full-screen call-style notification.
Summary
WhatsApp is introducing a new feature named ‘Voice chats,’ which allows group members to engage in audio conversations. This feature subtly notifies participants without ringing, akin to Twitter Spaces and Discord’s voice channels. It’s currently available to a select group of users testing the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.23.16.19. While group conversations remain active for an hour after all leave, participants can initiate voice chats without manual additions.
WhatsApp is introducing a new feature that brings group voice chats reminiscent of Discord:Here’s a breakdown of how it operates
The voice chat feature resembles group calls but discreetly notifies participants without ringing. It’s in beta with a participant limit of 32, but this number might change upon the official release. Participants can enter or exit conversations at their convenience, facilitated by a ‘Connect’ button in the group chat list.
Voice chats will be end-to-end encrypted and won’t generate full-screen call-style notifications. The feature might not be accessible for groups with fewer than 32 participants initially, but this could change later. Currently in beta, the feature will likely roll out to stable WhatsApp versions soon.
According to WABetaInfo, it’s suggested that voice chats might not be accessible for groups comprising fewer than 32 participants; however, WhatsApp could potentially alter this minimum participant requirement in the future. Currently, this feature appears to be accessible to beta testers, but as WhatsApp progressively releases the feature, users on the stable version may gain access to it in the upcoming days.
