A new feature has been released on the beta version of WhatsApp for iPhone that allows you to listen to voice messages without opening the app
The developers of WhatsApp have introduced a new feature in the beta version dedicated to the iPhone: voice messages can be listened to directly from notifications without having to go inside the app. This is an important change that allows users not to lose too much time when receiving an audio note or audio content.
The new feature is available in version 2.19.91.1 of WhatsApp beta for iOS and for the moment has been released for a small number of users. WhatsApp engineers do not want to force the arrival of the new feature: it will be released slowly for all beta testers and in case the trial period goes well, it will also be integrated into the official version.
How to listen to WhatsApp voice notes from notifications
The guys at WABetaInfo, a Twitter profile that’s always very active on news about the instant messaging app, broke the news about the new feature. On their blog they also explained how to use the new feature. It’s really very simple: when you receive a voice message on WhatsApp, within the notifications will appear directly to the media player to listen to it. Pressing on the Play icon will start playing the message. The same applies to audio content such as MP3s.
The iOS system, however, does not allow users to respond to voice notes with an audio message, but only with a text message. In case you want to reply with an audio note, you will have to open the app by necessity.
When will the feature be available
As mentioned, the release will be very slow. For the time being, it is only available to a limited number of users who have installed version 2.19.91.1 beta of WhatsApp for iPhone. In case you are not among the lucky ones who have received the update, you can try to force it by deleting the application and installing it from scratch. Remember, though, to back up the app so you don’t lose any important messages or content.