In recent weeks we are seeing how WhatsApp is redesigning its messaging application by adding small changes, such as more rounded chat bubbles, but in the latest beta, we see a much more important change in voice memos.
After allowing us to play the audios at different speeds, WhatsApp Beta debuts under a new design for the more visual but much simpler voice memo player that eliminates an important feature.
This is what the new WhatsApp Beta voice memos look like
WhatsApp Beta now displays the voice waves in the audio notes, replacing the playback bar that since its launch has accompanied us. With this design of voice waves, we can see the variations in intensity in the sound of the note. The voice waves change color to a darker gray as the audio plays to indicate where the playback is going.
This aesthetic change eliminates, at least in the current version, an important feature: the playback bar slider. In the previous design, which showed a playback bar, we could manually move its position slider to rewind or forward the playback. Now in the new voice wave design, this has disappeared.
The voice wave redesign is a good thing but it does not eliminate the playback control, because if you have not understood any part of an audio note it forces you to play the audio note again from the beginning. You should be able to change the playback position as you do now.
As this is a beta version still under development this could change in the next few days with a new update. For example, Instagram and Telegram voice memos have the same design of voice waves but if you can forward or rewind the playback by sliding your finger to the sides. We expect WhatsApp to do the same.
