How Long Can an Audio Be on WhatsApp? Everything You Need to Know
- chatixapp01
- Mar 21
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 27
WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps in the world, allowing users to send text messages, images, videos, and even voice messages. One common question that many WhatsApp users have is: "How long can an audio message be on WhatsApp?" Whether you're sending quick voice notes or recording long conversations, it's essential to understand the time limits and file size restrictions set by WhatsApp.
In this article, we will explore the limits of audio messages on WhatsApp, factors that affect the duration, and useful tips for managing long recordings.
WhatsApp Voice Message Duration Limits
WhatsApp allows users to send voice messages (voice notes) directly through the app. Unlike regular audio files, which may have size restrictions, voice messages recorded within WhatsApp have no fixed duration limit. In theory, you can record a voice message for several minutes or even hours as long as you don’t exit the recording screen or your device doesn’t run out of storage or battery.
However, while there is no official time limit, practical limitations exist:
If your phone storage is full, WhatsApp may stop recording.
The app may crash if the recording is too long.
Network issues may prevent sending extremely long recordings.
In short, while you can record indefinitely, it's best to keep voice messages within a reasonable duration (under 5-10 minutes) to avoid issues.
WhatsApp Audio File Duration Limits
If you are trying to send an audio file (such as an MP3 or WAV file), WhatsApp has file size limitations that indirectly affect the length of the audio.
File Size Limit on WhatsApp:
iPhone and Android: The maximum file size for any media (videos, documents, or audio files) is 16 MB.
WhatsApp Web & Desktop: Allows sharing files up to 2 GB.
The duration of an audio file depends on its format, bitrate, and compression. Here’s an estimate:
Low-quality MP3 (64 kbps) – About 4 hours for 16MB.
Medium-quality MP3 (128 kbps) – About 2 hours for 16MB.
High-quality MP3 (320 kbps) – About 40 minutes for 16MB.
Lossless formats (WAV, FLAC) – Significantly shorter duration due to large file size.
If you want to send longer audio files, you can compress them or use third-party cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox to share the file link instead.
How to Record and Send Long Audio Messages on WhatsApp
1. Using WhatsApp's Voice Note Feature
If you want to send a long voice message:
Open a chat on WhatsApp.
Press and hold the microphone icon to record.
Slide up to lock the recording (so you don’t have to keep pressing).
Speak as long as needed, then hit send.
2. Sending Pre-Recorded Audio Files
If you have an audio recording saved on your phone:
Open the chat in WhatsApp.
Tap the attachment icon (paperclip on Android, + icon on iPhone).
Select Audio and choose the file.
If the file exceeds 16MB, compress it or upload it to a cloud service and send the link.
Tips for Sending Long Audios on WhatsApp
1. Keep It Short and Engaging
While WhatsApp allows long recordings, it's best to keep voice messages under 5 minutes for better engagement. If your message is too long, consider breaking it into shorter parts. Use WhatsApp Link Generator by Chatix
2. Use External Recording Apps for Better Quality
If you need to record high-quality audio (e.g., for interviews, podcasts, or music), use apps like Voice Recorder, Dolby On, or GarageBand and then send the file via WhatsApp.
3. Reduce File Size for Large Audio Files
If you need to send long audio files, compress them using apps like MP3 Cutter & Compressor or websites like Online Audio Converter before sending.
4. Use Cloud Services for Very Long Audio Files
For recordings longer than 1 hour, use Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. Upload the file and share the link on WhatsApp.
5. Ensure a Stable Internet Connection
Long audio files take more time to upload. Make sure you're connected to a stable Wi-Fi or 4G/5G network to prevent interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What happens if I record a very long voice note?
If your phone runs out of space or battery, the recording may stop. Some users also experience crashes when recording very long messages. It’s best to keep recordings under 10-15 minutes to avoid issues. Use Chatix App for making your chats more fun.
Q2: Can I edit a voice message before sending it?
No, WhatsApp does not currently allow editing voice messages before sending. However, you can use third-party audio editors like Audacity or Lexis Audio Editor to edit pre-recorded audio files before sending.
Q3: Why can't I send a long audio file on WhatsApp?
The most common reasons include:
The file exceeds the 16MB limit on mobile (or 2GB limit on desktop).
The audio format is not supported.
Your internet connection is weak.
Q4: Can I send a voice message on WhatsApp without holding the button?
Yes! Slide up on the microphone icon to lock the recording so you don’t have to keep holding it.
Q5: How do I listen to a long WhatsApp voice message faster?
WhatsApp offers playback speed options. You can play voice messages at 1x, 1.5x, or 2x speed to listen faster.
Final Thoughts
WhatsApp is a great tool for sending voice messages and audio files, but it does have some limits you should keep in mind. While voice notes have no strict duration limit, practical issues like storage and app stability can impact long recordings. For pre-recorded audio files, the 16MB size limit on mobile can restrict how long your file can be, but you can compress or share files via cloud services to bypass this. Also read our latest blog on A Complete Guide to Whatsapp Conversation Summary.
By following the tips above, you can effectively record, send, and manage long audio messages on WhatsApp with ease. Happy messaging!
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