The instant messaging service 'WhatsApp' has revived the concept of voicemail by adding this feature to the app. This move draws inspiration from one of the features that saw reduced usage in traditional phone calls, as part of an update that began rolling out to users worldwide since last week.

WhatsApp clarified that if a user does not answer a voice call, they can now leave a recorded voice message after hearing the beep. This message will appear directly in the chat between the two parties, allowing the other person to listen to it later.

Furthermore, the update includes another scenario for incomplete calls, wherein if the caller ends the call before the other party answers and before reaching voicemail, the app displays an incomplete call log within the chat window, accompanied by a button that prompts the caller to send a recorded voice message explaining the reason for the call.

Screenshot depicting the recorded voice or video message feature on WhatsApp.

The update is not limited to voice calls only; it also includes the ability to record a video message when attempting to make a video call that is not answered. This feature is aimed at enhancing communication options within the app.

WhatsApp had begun testing the voicemail feature for voice calls on a limited basis through the WhatsApp Beta Program last August, before gradually making it available to users in the general version over the past few days.