LinkedIn will let you record and send voice messages on its iOS and Android apps, which the company argues will help you save time when writing to contacts.
For better or worse, you’ll soon be able to send and receive voice messages on LinkedIn.
The new feature is rolling out to LinkedIn’s mobile app for both iOS and Android in the coming weeks. It’ll appear as a tiny microphone icon that’ll pop up over the virtual keyboard when you try to message someone.
You’ll be able to record voice messages up to one minute in length, the Microsoft-owned service said in a blog post . «We hope this makes it easier than ever to communicate when you want,» the company added.
The voice messages can only be recorded with the company’s mobile app. However, you’ll be able to receive and listen to the messages on the app and LinkedIn’s website.
Whether or not this opens the door for more spam on LinkedIn is another matter. Your own inbox on the service may already be full with business pitches from contacts you’ve never met. Now imagine getting bombarded with voice messages from more strangers.
However, LinkedIn said there are good reasons to add the new feature. For one, typing out a message can take too long.
«People speak about four times faster than they type, making voice messaging great for explaining longer or more complex ideas without the time and involvement of typing and editing a message,» the company said. «It’s also helpful for when you’re on the move and don’t have time to stop and type.»
LinkedIn also said sending a voice message to a recipient can help «build a more personal connection,» which could be good if you’re looking to strike a business deal or land a job, provided you reach someone who responds to cold calls.
