What in the World - The rise of the rambling voice note

Download The rise of the rambling voice note

Where do you stand on voice notes? In some places, sending a three minute - or even 20 minute(!) voice memo is totally normal and actually seen as much more personal than texting.

It started back in 2013 on WhatsApp but now you can send voice messages on Instagram as well as some dating sites. Lots of people love them as you can send messages on the go and don’t have to worry about typos. BUT is it selfish or indulgent to send them? Some people say they demand more time for the person receiving them and it’s not always practical to listen to them, especially if you’re at work.

In this episode we unpack why voice messages are more popular in some countries and some of the voice message etiquette with BBC reporter Ashitha Nagesh. We also hear from some of our BBC friends around the world - why do you love or hate them?

Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Chelsea Coates, Jenna Abaakouk, Emily Horler and Julia Ross-Roy
Editor: Verity Wilde

Published on Wednesday, 13th May 2026.

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