No rings, no pings — just drop in: WhatsApp Voice Chats let groups talk instantly—here’s how

WhatsApp is transforming the way group chats function with the launch of a major update that enables voice chats—dubbed “audio hangouts”—in all group conversations, regardless of size.

Previously restricted to larger groups, the feature is now available to every WhatsApp group, providing users with a casual, real-time audio communication option that doesn’t interrupt ongoing text messages.

‘Audio hangouts for everyone’: Zuckerberg

In an announcement shared on X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp said:“Voice Chat is now available in all groups—big or small, so when the group chat is going back-and-forth, take it from messaging to talking it out live by swiping up in the chat.”

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg confirmed the change, stating, “Today we're rolling out Voice Chats to all groups on WhatsApp, making it easier to create an audio hangout that anyone in your group can pop in and out of.”

He added that the update is designed to support real-time, low-pressure conversations: “Whether it’s a nail-biting football game, a dramatic season finale or sharing some big news, sometimes you need to talk it out with those available at that moment. That’s why we’re bringing voice chat to groups of all sizes so you can connect live over audio whenever.”

No rings, no pings — Just drop in and talk

Unlike standard voice or video calls, WhatsApp’s new voice chats don’t ring or alert users. Instead, any group member can join or leave freely. To start a chat, simply swipe up from the message bar and hold for a few seconds. Once started, the voice chat is pinned to the bottom of the screen for easy access and visibility, showing who’s actively participating.

How to start a Voice Chat

Starting a voice chat is simple:

• Swipe up from the chat box at the bottom of your group conversation.

• Hold for a few seconds to activate the voice chat.

• The call will appear pinned at the bottom of the screen, and others can join anytime.

This feature is now live on both Android and iOS, available for groups with at least three members.

Inspired by Clubhouse and Telegram

The audio hangout model follows trends set by platforms like Clubhouse, Discord, and Telegram. WhatsApp is rolling the feature out to both Android and iOS devices in the coming days, making spontaneous audio conversations more accessible and integrated into the app’s familiar interface.

Privacy still a priority

As with all communication on WhatsApp, voice chats are protected by end-to-end encryption, ensuring conversations remain secure and private.

Mixed reactions from users

While some users welcomed the feature, others voiced concerns on social media.
“Finally, group debates can go from passive-aggressive texting to full-blown voice chaos,” one user joked.
Another asked, “Is there a way to disable the voice chat?”—highlighting unease over how it may change group dynamics.

Older iPhones no longer supported

The update comes just after WhatsApp stopped supporting several legacy iPhone models. As of May 5, only devices running iOS 15.1 or later can use the app. The affected models include:

• iPhone 5s

• iPhone 6

• iPhone 6 Plus

New era for Group Chats

With this latest feature, WhatsApp aims to create a more natural, interactive group experience. The platform continues to evolve in step with user expectations—adding real-time audio to its robust suite of communication tools without sacrificing its trademark focus on security.