How to Send Voice Messages on iPhone

Sending voice messages is one of the fastest and most personal ways to communicate on your iPhone. Whether you’re on the go, want to avoid typing, or just prefer speaking, iMessage and third-party apps make voice messaging seamless. This guide covers everything — from basic steps to advanced tips.

📱 What is a Voice Message?

A voice message (also called an audio message) is a short recorded clip you send via iMessage, WhatsApp, or other messaging apps. It’s perfect for quick thoughts, emotions, and updates that are better conveyed through tone and voice.

🧭 How to Send Voice Messages Using iMessage (iOS 17 & Above)

🔧 Prerequisites:

• iPhone with iOS 17 or newer

• iMessage enabled (Settings > Messages > iMessage toggle ON)

• Internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data)

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✅ Steps to Send a Voice Message on iPhone via iMessage:

1. Open the Messages App

   • Tap the green speech bubble icon.

2. Select a Conversation

   • Tap on an existing chat or start a new message.

3. Tap the ‘+’ Button Next to the Text Box

   • This reveals more messaging options.

4. Tap “Audio”

   • This brings up the voice message recording feature.

5. Hold the Microphone Button to Record

   • Start speaking. You’ll see a waveform animation while recording.

6. Release to Stop

   • iPhone automatically ends the recording when you release your finger.

7. Tap the Send Button (Up Arrow)

   • Or tap “Play” to review before sending.

 

🛠️ Additional Controls and Features

⏳ Customize Expiry Settings for Audio Messages

By default, voice messages expire after 2 minutes. Here’s how to change that:

• Go to: Settings > Messages

• Scroll to: Audio Messages

• Tap: “Expire” and choose:

  • After 2 Minutes (default)

  • Never (messages are saved forever)

 

🔁 Replay Before Sending

After recording:

• Tap Play to listen.

• Tap X to cancel and re-record.

• Tap Send to deliver the message.

 

🗂 Where Are Voice Messages Saved?

Voice messages aren’t stored permanently unless:

• You tap “Keep” after listening.

• You change the Expiry setting to “Never”.

They are saved within the Messages app conversation until deleted or expired.

🧠 Pro Tips for Using Voice Messages on iPhone

• Use Siri: Say “Send a voice message to [Name]” and follow the prompts.

• Record in quiet environments: For clear audio quality.

• Avoid long recordings: Break messages into smaller chunks.

• Use AirPods or headphones: Better mic = clearer sound.

 

🟢 How to Send Voice Messages Using WhatsApp on iPhone

If you prefer WhatsApp over iMessage, follow these steps:

1. Open WhatsApp

2. Tap a Chat

3. Hold the Microphone Icon (Bottom Right)

4. Speak Your Message

5. Release to Send

Bonus Tip: Swipe up while holding to lock recording for hands-free voice messages.

🔁 Edit or Forward a Voice Message

iMessage:

• You can’t edit, but you can re-record and resend.

To Forward:

1. Tap and hold the message.

2. Select More > tap the Forward arrow.

3. Choose recipient(s).

 

🧽 How to Delete a Voice Message on iPhone

1. Tap and hold the message.

2. Tap Delete.

3. Confirm.

Note: Once deleted, it’s gone permanently from your side.

🤔 FAQs

❓Can I send voice messages to Android users?

Yes, but only through apps like WhatsApp or Messenger. iMessage works only between Apple devices.

❓Why can’t I find the microphone icon?

You might be looking for it in the old spot (beside the text field). In iOS 17 and newer, it’s under the + button.

❓Can I send voice messages via email?

Yes. Use the Voice Memos app:

1. Record audio

2. Tap Share

3. Choose Mail

 

🔉 How to Use Voice Memos to Send Audio Messages (More Control)

Voice Memos gives you better editing and longer recording capability.

Steps:

1. Open Voice Memos

2. Tap Record

3. Tap Stop when done

4. Tap the message > Share > Choose Messages or Mail

 

🧭 Troubleshooting

✅ Summary

🔚 Final Thoughts

Voice messages on iPhone provide a powerful, fast, and expressive way to communicate. With just a few taps, you can send emotion-rich audio messages through iMessage, WhatsApp, or even email. Whether you’re a multitasker, a fast talker, or just someone who prefers voice over text — this feature can save time and add personality to your conversations.

Let your voice be heard — literally.