Highlights
- Voice messages now available in Google Chat for Workspace accounts.
- Easy recording with a tap—no need to hold down the microphone icon.
- Playback and deletion options available before sending voice messages.
- Future updates to include transcription services for voice messages.
Google has recently announced a significant update to Google Chat, introducing the long-awaited feature of voice messaging.
This enhancement allows users to record and send voice messages within their chats, offering a new dimension to online communication within the platform.
However, this feature debuts exclusively for paid Google Workspace accounts.
Voice Messaging: A Closer Look
The new voice messaging capability is designed with user convenience in mind.
It replaces the previously grayed-out send icon in Google Chat’s Android and iOS applications with a new microphone button, positioned next to the photo/gallery button for easy access.
Users can start recording their message with a simple tap on the microphone icon, eliminating the need to hold it down during recording.
As you speak, Google Chat visually represents your voice with a live waveform, accompanied by a timer to track the duration of your message.
Before sending, you have the option to playback your recording for review or delete it if a retake is necessary.
Once sent, voice messages are visually displayed as waveforms within a pill-shaped container in direct messages, group chats, and Spaces.
Recipients can interact with these voice messages just like any other chat content, including quoting, reacting, and replying.
Google has also announced plans to introduce transcription for voice messages, further enhancing their accessibility and utility in the coming months.
Availability and Future Plans
Initially, this feature is available on mobile devices, with plans to extend support to web users soon.
The introduction of voice messages in Google Chat responds to high demand from the user community, recognizing the value of voice as a quick, informative, and expressive mode of communication.
At its launch, the voice messaging feature is accessible to subscribers of Workspace Enterprise Essentials, Enterprise Essentials Plus, Enterprise Standard, and Enterprise Plus tiers.
Users with free or lower-tier accounts will need to await further updates for access.
The rollout begins today and will gradually reach all eligible users over the next few weeks.
FAQs
How can I send a voice message in Google Chat?
To send a voice message in Google Chat on Android or iOS, simply open a conversation and tap on the new microphone icon next to the photo/gallery button.
The app will start recording your message immediately without needing to hold the button, and you can review or delete the recording before sending.
Who has access to the new voice messaging feature in Google Chat?
At its launch, the voice messaging feature in Google Chat is available exclusively to users with Workspace Enterprise Essentials, Enterprise Essentials Plus, Enterprise Standard, and Enterprise Plus accounts.
Users with free or other lower-tiered Google Workspace accounts will need to wait for wider access in future updates.
Can I review my voice message before sending it in Google Chat?
Yes, Google Chat allows you to playback your recorded voice message before sending it. If you’re not satisfied with the recording, you have the option to delete it and record a new message.
Will Google Chat voice messages be available on web browsers?
While the voice messaging feature is initially rolling out on mobile devices, Google has announced that web support for voice messages in Google Chat is in the works and will be coming soon.
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