WhatsApp beta for iOS 23.9.0.70: what's new?
WhatsApp has just submitted a new update through the TestFlight beta Program, bringing the version up to 23.9.0.70. The version marked within WhatsApp Settings is 2.23.9.70 and the TestFlight build is 23.9.0 (469974078).
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a voice message transcription feature, and it is available to some beta testers!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Voice message transcripts |
| Status? | Rolling out |
| Compatibility? | WhatsApp beta for iOS 23.9.0.70 is marked as a compatible update, but some lucky users may be able to get the same feature after installing the previous update of the app. |
| I have the same version but I don't have this feature, why? | This feature is available to some beta testers, and it is rolling out to more people over the coming weeks. |
| Thanks: | Eloy, Spencer, aaronp613, DeathBase, and Joel Franco, for testing and reporting. |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.9.19: what’s new? WhatsApp is releasing a chat transfer feature without using Google Drive! |
VOICE MESSAGE TRANSCRIPTS
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for iOS 23.3.0.73 update, we shared information about a new feature under development: voice message transcripts. This functionality was designed to improve the messaging experience by allowing users to read the content of voice messages in situations where playing audio isn't possible, such as in quiet environments or during meetings. It adds a layer of accessibility and convenience, especially for those who prefer reading over listening. After installing the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 23.9.0.70 update, which is available through the TestFlight app, we can now confirm that WhatsApp is finally rolling out this feature to some beta testers!
As you can see in this screenshot, the transcription is added to the message bubble, making it easier for users to read. This feature is enabled by default but in case you do not want your voice messages being transcribed for some reason, you can disable the feature by visiting WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Voice Message Transcripts. Note that this feature always preserves end-to-end encryption as the transcription process takes place locally on the user's device, by using language packs. For this reason, the ability to transcribe messages is only available for some users on newer versions of iOS, as it uses the latest APIs provided by iOS 16 that allow the app to process the voice message locally on the user's device, without the need to transfer the message to external servers.
The transcription feature for voice notes also allows users to search for specific information within the message. When a voice note is transcribed, the text is indexed, making it searchable. This means that if a user is looking for certain information within a long voice note, or they do not remember which voice note contains the content they are looking for, they can simply search for the relevant keyword or phrase by using the search bar, and the transcription will highlight where that text appears within the message. In our opinion, this operation can help users save time and make it easier for everyone to find specific information within their conversations.
The ability to transcribe voice notes is available for some beta testers that install the latest version of WhatsApp beta for iOS from the TestFlight app, and it is rolling out to even more people over the coming weeks.
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