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WhatsApp Update Will Debut AI Voice Mode With 10 Variants

WhatsApp is developing a new feature that will allow users to choose between various Meta AI chat mode voices.

Published

9 months ago

August 15, 2024

Nour Nasir

whatsapp update will debut ai voice mode with ten variants

Meta

WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will allow users to interact with Meta AI using a variety of voices. Although this feature is not yet available for beta testing, WABetaInfo has revealed that the latest WhatsApp beta update for Android (version 2.24.17.16) includes information about selecting the Meta AI voices.

The upcoming feature will enable users to converse with Meta AI in real-time. Although the chat mode is still under development, current reports indicate that users will be able to choose from ten different voices for Meta AI. At present, this feature is only available on the Android version of WhatsApp. However, it is expected that iOS users will eventually be able to use the Meta AI chat mode too.

It’s important to note that even if you manage to download and install the WhatsApp beta version on your Android device, its functionality will likely be restricted, as it is currently still in the development stage. Screenshots shared by the feature tracker reveal a new voice icon in the Meta AI chat interface, represented by an audio waveform next to the text field.

Upon selecting this icon, a bottom sheet appears with “Meta AI” displayed at the top. In the center, a circular design composed of several bubbles is visible. At the bottom of the sheet, the message “Hi, how can I help?” is shown along with a larger audio waveform icon, indicating that the AI is ready to listen.

Also Read: Top Free AI Chatbots Available In The Middle East

Additional screenshots imply that the Meta AI voice mode will offer users up to ten unique voices to choose between. The differences between these voices are not yet clear, but they may vary in accents, levels of enthusiasm, or even tonal characteristics. However, it’s unlikely that any of the voices will support multiple languages on the update’s initial release.

Related Topics:Artificial Intelligence Meta WhatsApp

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UAE’s Etihad Rail Launches In 2026 — What You Need To Know

A 1,200 km passenger network will transform public transport, with 11 connected cities, and high-speed trains cutting inter-emirate travel times.

Published

1 day ago

May 19, 2025

Nour Nasir

Etihad Rail

Etihad Rail has confirmed that its long-anticipated passenger train service will officially launch in 2026, ushering in a new era of high-speed, inter-emirate travel. The UAE’s national railway developer shared the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), as work continues on a 1,200 km passenger network set to connect 11 cities across all seven emirates.

The news marks a major leap in public transportation for the country, with passenger trains designed to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h. Travel times will be significantly reduced — Abu Dhabi to Dubai is expected to take just under an hour, while the journey to Fujairah will be cut to around 105 minutes. A separate high-speed line, capable of reaching 350 km/h, is also in the works to link Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes.

The backbone of the network was completed in 2023, when Etihad Rail launched its 900 km freight service linking key industrial and logistics hubs across the UAE, including ports in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah. Now, the focus has shifted to passenger infrastructure.

The first station will be located in Sakamkam, Fujairah city centre, and a second is confirmed near University City in Sharjah. Dubai’s main station is expected to be adjacent to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station, while Abu Dhabi’s is anticipated along the corridor separating Mussafah Industrial Area and Mohammed Bin Zayed City.

Also Read: UGREEN Nexode Pro Review: Portable Yet Powerful Chargers

Once completed, the passenger network will link cities including Al Sila, Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Integration with Oman is also part of the long-term vision. A new cross-border project — Hafeet Rail — will span 303 km between Sohar and Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathba area. Developed by Etihad Rail in collaboration with Oman Rail and Mubadala, the link is expected to deepen trade and tourism ties between the two countries.

Etihad Rail’s passenger trains will carry up to 400 passengers each and feature Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, charging points, and onboard food and beverage options to ensure a comfortable experience. To further simplify access, passengers will be able to pay with their nol cards, thanks to a partnership between Etihad Rail and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The collaboration aims to integrate fare payments and booking systems under one unified platform.