Google Chat voice messages, which were first made available for Workspace earlier this year, are now accessible for individual Gmail accounts.
When it is rolled out, a microphone adjacent to the gallery in the bottom-right corner takes the place of the send icon. Instead of being tucked away in the “plus” menu alongside the other Meet link, Files, and Format options, the positioning is rather noticeable.
This has a small, pill-shaped user interface and begins recording right away. The red trash icon on the left instantly deletes, and there is a waveform and counter. On the opposite side is the end button, which allows you to listen before transmitting.
After a few seconds, the communicated waveform shows inline, and both parties receive a transcript, similar to what is seen in Google Messages.
All things considered, this is a simple implementation of voice messages, which are now available for free users in Google Chat for iOS and Android, along with the integrated Gmail experience. Additionally, audio memos can be accessed online with a somewhat different user interface.