WhatsApp has expanded its voice chat feature to support groups of all sizes, allowing users to connect via live audio without leaving the group chat or initiating a traditional call. The update, announced this week, builds on a feature previously available only to large groups and is designed for spontaneous, real-time conversations—whether reacting to a football match, a TV show finale, or breaking news. The feature aims to create a more casual, flexible way for groups to stay connected in real time—without disrupting conversations or requiring everyone to join immediately.
Announcing the new feature, WhatsApp – in a blog post said “we’re bringing voice chat to groups of all sizes so you can connect live over audio whenever, without having to leave your group chat or switch to a call, that people in your group can hop into whenever they want.”
How to start a voice chat on WhatsApp
To start a voice chat, users can now swipe up from the bottom of any group chat and hold for a few seconds. Unlike voice or video calls, voice chats do not ring members; instead, they remain quietly accessible within the chat. Participants can join or leave at their convenience, and the voice chat remains pinned at the bottom of the screen with visible call controls and participant lists.
As with all WhatsApp communications, these voice chats are protected by default with end-to-end encryption, maintaining the app’s strong privacy standards.
Announcing the new feature, WhatsApp – in a blog post said “we’re bringing voice chat to groups of all sizes so you can connect live over audio whenever, without having to leave your group chat or switch to a call, that people in your group can hop into whenever they want.”
How to start a voice chat on WhatsApp
To start a voice chat, users can now swipe up from the bottom of any group chat and hold for a few seconds. Unlike voice or video calls, voice chats do not ring members; instead, they remain quietly accessible within the chat. Participants can join or leave at their convenience, and the voice chat remains pinned at the bottom of the screen with visible call controls and participant lists.
As with all WhatsApp communications, these voice chats are protected by default with end-to-end encryption, maintaining the app’s strong privacy standards.
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