voice message vs text

voice message vs text Voice messaging is replacing texting at a rapid rate. What’s going on? Read on to learn why voice messages are replacing text.

For years text messages have been the chosen way to communicate quickly, discreetly, and frequently. The world fell in love with a way to communicate instantly and silently in any location.

It turns out, however, that voice messages weren’t content to remain a thing of the past.

Voice messages, brief messages exchanged walkie-talkie style, are making waves in the communication world. Is it convenience? A desire to actually hear someone’s voice?

Voice messaging may eventually replace texting as the go-to choice for quick communication.

What are Voice Messages?

A voice message is a short message in which each person records audio clips and sends them instead of typing out a text. They’re usually sent via messaging apps like iMessage and WhatsApp as small audio files.

Voice messaging isn’t like voicemail, which involves a lot of tedium to open and then tends to drag on too long. The messages pop up right in the chosen app, ready for listening.

So how is this so different from a phone call? Voice messaging can be listened to when it’s convenient. Those sending and receiving messages get to hear each other’s voices without having to commit to an actual phone call.

Why Use Voice Messages?

Why would users want to record audio when they could simply text? There are several significant reasons this messaging trend is the top choice for some.

Convenience

Voice messaging is especially convenient for the sender. It requires only recording and sending. Speaking can be accomplished much more quickly than typing, especially when the message is more lengthy.

Sometimes it’s more convenient to simply say something and send the message along.

Voice messaging is also more convenient when dealing with different languages. This is true for those who work with a diverse group of people and must speak several languages. Text messaging offers many obstacles for such communication.

Auto-correct can be frustrating when switching languages. Also, some people can speak a language but cannot write or read in that language. This can be true in business and family interactions. In these cases, texting is nearly useless or irritating at best.

Fewer Misunderstandings

Text messaging may be simple and convenient, but it is often lacking in crucial communication aspects. There’s also the issue of typos and awkward writing. This frequently leads to misinterpretation and misunderstandings.

Text messaging can’t fully convey the sender’s tone, emotion, or purpose. Voice messaging is starkly different in this regard. The user’s tone of voice, urgency, or other communication cues are easy to catch when listening to a recording. It’s less disconnected and far more human.

The Downside

Though convenient on one side, voice messaging can be annoying on the receiving end. They’re far less discreet than texts. Forget about exchanging messages in meetings or similar settings.

To listen to the messages the receiver usually prefers a private place or to use headphones or earbuds. In a multitasking, busy world, plugging in earbuds just to listen to a recording can be an inconvenience.

Recall Technology

Recall technology is going to be invaluable for those using voice messaging, users are less likely to realize they have said or sent something in error vs when they can proofread their texts.

OST Undo

We provide enterprise solutions the ability to help customers send the right message by unleashing the power of “Undo.” OST Undo, which enables any message or transaction to be recalled.

Want To Learn More

Take OST Undo for a test drive, we can implement it on your platform with a 60-day free trial. Contact maci@onsecondthought.co to get started!

The Future of Voice Messages

Voice messages may be proof that people do want to hear each other after all and that voice communication isn’t yet dead. It’s convenient (at least on one end) and more personal, though listening to a short audio clip may not be for everyone.