What’s New

Outbound WhatsApp voice notes sent from the NextLevel (NLA) Conversations UI are now delivered as native WhatsApp voice messages instead of downloadable audio attachments.

With this update:

Voice notes are auto-downloaded and playable instantly inside WhatsApp

End customers can view voice message transcriptions directly in WhatsApp (when enabled in their settings)

This brings your outbound voice messaging experience fully in line with WhatsApp’s native capabilities.

What Changed (And Why It Matters)

Previously, WhatsApp voice notes sent from NLA were delivered as audio attachments, which required customers to manually download and open the file to listen.

Now:

Voice notes are sent in WhatsApp’s native voice note format

They play inline, just like messages sent from the WhatsApp app

WhatsApp’s built-in voice transcription feature is supported

Why SMBs and businesses should use this:

Higher engagement – customers are more likely to listen to (or read) voice notes that play instantly

Improved accessibility – customers can read messages instead of listening

Better clarity – transcripts help in noisy environments or when audio isn’t convenient

More human conversations – voice notes feel personal, without adding friction

How It Works

Outbound WhatsApp voice notes from NLA are now sent in OGG format

This format is fully compatible with WhatsApp’s native voice message transcription

If the recipient has voice transcripts enabled, they’ll see a “Transcribe” option directly on the voice note

No changes are required on the NLA side—this works automatically for outbound voice notes sent from Conversations.

How End Customers Enable Voice Transcripts (WhatsApp Setting)

To view transcriptions, the recipient must enable the feature in WhatsApp:

Open WhatsApp on your mobile device

Go to Settings → Chats

Tap Voice message transcripts

Select Manually (tap Transcribe when needed)

Choose your preferred Transcript Language

Return to the chat and tap Transcribe on any supported voice note

Note: If this setting is turned off or set to Never, transcripts will not appear.

Impact

Native WhatsApp voice notes instead of downloadable audio attachments

Automatic playback and optional transcription for end customers

Improved accessibility, clarity, and message comprehension

A more seamless, modern WhatsApp messaging experience for SMBs and their customers