News
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.

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.
News
Rabbit Expands Hyperlocal Delivery Service In Saudi Arabia
The e-commerce startup is aiming to tap into the Kingdom’s underdeveloped e-grocery sector with a tech-first, locally rooted strategy.

Rabbit, an Egyptian-born hyperlocal e-commerce startup, is expanding into the Saudi Arabian market, setting its sights on delivering 20 million items across major cities by 2026.
The company, founded in 2021, is already operational in the Kingdom, with its regional headquarters now open in Riyadh and an established network of strategically located fulfillment centers — commonly known as “dark stores” — across the capital.
The timing is strategic: Saudi Arabia’s online grocery transactions currently sit at 1.3%, notably behind the UAE (5.3%) and the United States (4.8%). With the Kingdom’s food and grocery market estimated at $60 billion, even a modest increase in online adoption could create a multi-billion-dollar opportunity.
Rabbit also sees a clear alignment between its business goals and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to boost retail sector innovation, support small and medium-sized enterprises, attract foreign investment, and develop a robust digital economy.
The company’s e-commerce model is based on speed and efficiency. Delivery of anything from groceries and snacks to cosmetics and household staples is promised in 20 minutes or less, facilitated by a tightly optimized logistics system — a crucial component in a sector where profit margins and delivery expectations are razor-thin.
Despite the challenges, Rabbit has already found its stride in Egypt. In just over three years, the app has been used by 1.4 million customers to deliver more than 40 million items. Revenue has surged, growing more than eightfold in the past two years alone.
Also Read: Top E-Commerce Websites In The Middle East In 2025
CEO and Co-Founder Ahmad Yousry commented: “We are delighted to announce Rabbit’s expansion into the Kingdom. We pride ourselves on being a hyperlocal company, bringing our bleeding-edge tech and experience to transform the grocery shopping experience for Saudi households, and delivering the best products – especially local favorites, in just 20 minutes”.
The company’s growth strategy avoids the pitfalls of over-reliance on aggressive discounting. Instead, Rabbit leans on operational efficiency, customer retention, and smart scaling. The approach is paying off, having already attracted major investment from the likes of Lorax Capital Partners, Global Ventures, Raed Ventures, and Beltone Venture Capital, alongside earlier investors such as Global Founders Capital, Goodwater Capital, and Hub71.