A new feature allowing real-time voice conversations with Meta AI is reportedly being tested on the latest WhatsApp beta for Android, version 2.25.21.21. The feature, currently available to select beta testers, allows users to interact with the AI chatbot through voice.
According to a report from WABetaInfo, users can initiate a voice chat in several ways. They can tap a new waveform icon within the standard text chat interface, or select a dedicated Meta AI contact from the “Calls” tab, which will start a voice conversation by default. An optional setting also allows users to have the Meta AI chat open directly into voice mode.
The voice chat interface displays suggested conversation topics to help users begin. It also includes a collapse icon, which allows the voice conversation to continue running in the background while the user navigates to other apps, similar to a standard WhatsApp call.
To end the session, users can tap an ‘X’ button, navigate away from the chat screen, or begin typing in the text field, which switches the interaction back to text mode. The status of the ongoing voice chat can be verified through a notification alert and the standard Android microphone-in-use indicator.
