Whatsapp launches new Fast Playback feature for both desktop and mobile phones for those tired of listening to hour-long voice messages without having to worry about altering the pitch of the sender’s voice

Whatsapp playback speed was introduced a while ago on desktops and is now available on mobile phones as well and people cannot stop talking about it!

Although Whatsapp introduced voice messages back in 2013, no new major update was seen following the next few years. Until recently, when Whatsapp decided to launch a playback speed control for voice messages to save time and increase efficiency.

Voice messages are now an integral part of every Whatsapp user’s life. They’re small elements that enable one to send recorded messages when needed instead of typing texts or making calls. The operation is pretty simple as you need to press and hold the microphone on the right side of the text box to record a message and release it when you’re done. For recording longer messages, simply slide your finger to the lock symbol to enable the hands-free option, then click the arrow when you’re ready to send.

The new playback feature enables users to play Whatsapp voice messages at three different speeds - 1x, 1.5x, and 2x. Was this feature even needed? Whatsapp claims it is for hour-long voice notes that do consume time but need to be listened to. The next time your aunt sends you that pumpkin pie recipe with loads of tidbits from here and there, or your boss sends you hour-long project feedback, you can just get the playback into action!

The process to enable these different speeds doesn’t require the least bit of effort. When you play a message, it is at the normal 1x speed. After you tap the ‘1x’, the speed will then change to 1.5x and by tapping again, it will turn to 2x.

We know you’re worried about sounding no less like a chipmunk to your receiver but don’t you worry for Whatsapp guarantees your voice won’t be altered the least bit. Whatsapp also claims that the sender can hear themselves if they play their messages at the increased playback speed.

Whatsapp emphasized the fact that this segment will now help save time, create efficiency and allow you to focus on other activities instead of listening to voice messages all day long. A WhatsApp spokesperson claims that in this era, we do need all the time-saving tricks in the bag and we agree wholeheartedly.

Whatsapp also actively participated in making lives easier for desktop app users as well by allowing them to make voice and video calls as well starting from March this year. The desktop version of Whatsapp was launched back in 2015 however the mobile version is much more popular, being the 'face' of Whatsapp. Perhaps this is why voice calls for mobile phones were introduced back in 2015 and video calls in 2016 but it took 5 years to then instigate these calls on the desktop version. We must say it was a wise choice to finally introduce it as with the ongoing pandemic, the only way to communicate was by calls which led to a rise in the favor of Whatsapp video and audio calls.

If you've tried and are fond of WhatsApp already or even if you're not such a big fan of the application, it is time you explored some of the other fish in the sea. Some of the Whatsapp alternatives include Telegram, Signal, iMessage, Google messages, and Facebook messenger. You might be familiar with most of them already but trust us, they work as great as Whatsapp.

The Facebook-owned app has also promised to roll out three new features in the upcoming months and with such a promising launch already with the Playback feature, indeed the bar is set high. Do you think Whatsapp will be able to dominate the messaging application industry with its ever-improving features? Let us know in the comments below.


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