How to send a voice message on WhatsApp

What you will learn

In this guide, you will learn how to record and send voice messages on WhatsApp. Voice messages are a quick way to communicate when you do not want to type, and they add a personal touch that text messages cannot.

What you need

• An iPhone or Android phone
• WhatsApp installed and set up
• A working microphone (built into your phone)

The steps

Step 1: Open a conversation

Open WhatsApp and tap on the conversation with the person or group you want to send a voice message to.

Step 2: Find the microphone button

Look at the bottom right corner of the screen, next to the message box. You will see a microphone icon. This is the button you use to record a voice message.

Step 3: Record your message

Press and hold the microphone icon with your finger. While holding it, speak clearly into your phone. You will see a timer counting the seconds and a red recording indicator. Keep holding the button for the entire duration of your message.

Step 4: Send the message

When you are finished speaking, lift your finger off the microphone button. The voice message will be sent immediately. You will see it appear in the conversation as a small audio bar that the other person can play.

Step 5: Use hands-free recording (optional)

For longer messages, you do not need to hold the button the entire time. Start by pressing and holding the microphone icon, then swipe up toward the lock icon that appears. This locks the recording so you can let go of the screen. When finished, tap the blue send button (arrow icon) to send, or tap the trash can icon to delete it.

Helpful tips

• Cancel a recording: If you change your mind while recording, swipe left on the microphone button. The recording will be deleted and nothing will be sent.
• Listen before sending: When using the locked recording mode, tap the play button to listen to your message before sending it.
• Playback speed: The person receiving your message can tap the speed button (1x, 1.5x, 2x) to listen faster. You can do the same with messages you receive.
• Privacy: If you hold the phone to your ear like a phone call, the voice message will play through the earpiece instead of the speaker, so only you can hear it.