WhatsApp is quietly reshaping how users interact with AI on mobile. According to feature tracker WABetaInfo, a new real-time voice chat feature with Meta AI is now being rolled out to select Android beta testers. This update could turn simple chatbot messages into live, flowing conversations, where users speak to Meta AI directly using their voice, just like a real call.
The new feature works in two ways. You can either enter the Meta AI chat and tap the waveform icon to switch to voice mode, or simply begin a session from the Call tab, where the Meta AI icon automatically transforms into a voice chat option. WhatsApp is even testing a setting under Voice Preferences that allows users to launch voice mode as soon as they open the AI chat window. This option is turned off by default but gives users more control over how they interact with the assistant.
What makes this update especially powerful is that the voice conversation with Meta AI can continue even when WhatsApp is running in the background. If you need to check your email or browse something while still talking to the AI, you can collapse the session with a button on the top left of the screen and carry on multitasking. Meta AI remains active and listens while you use other apps, just like a regular phone call.
Meta AI’s voice mode also introduces a dynamic interface that includes suggested topics at the center of the chat screen. These prompts are designed to help users explore what they can ask or talk about, especially useful for those new to AI voice interaction. Whether you want travel ideas, quick answers, or creative suggestions, the AI tries to steer the conversation forward.
Ending the chat is just as easy. Users can tap an X button, exit the chat screen, or even start typing a message to switch back to text mode. If there is any confusion about whether the call is still running, Android provides clear notifications and microphone indicators to show that the voice session is active.
This voice mode represents a more natural, fluid way to interact with AI, making it feel less like a chatbot and more like a smart assistant always ready to help. Meta is also reportedly fine-tuning personalisation so the assistant adapts to each user’s voice patterns and preferences over time.
With this upcoming rollout, WhatsApp is moving one step closer to blending instant messaging with intelligent voice-first experiences. As the company expands the beta, users can expect even more AI tools that integrate into everyday app functions, whether it is setting reminders, summarising messages, or now, simply talking to your phone.
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