How to Send Audio Message on iPhone 17

Sometimes, typing a message just doesn’t express emotion the way your voice can. That’s where audio messages come in handy. With your iPhone 17 running iOS 26, you can send short voice clips directly through the Messages app, making conversations more personal and expressive.

If you can’t find the microphone icon or are unsure how to record and send an audio message, here’s how to do it step by step.

Why Sending Audio Messages Is Useful

• It lets you communicate faster when you can’t type.
• It captures tone and emotion better than text.
• It’s perfect for quick replies while multitasking.
• It supports both iMessage and regular SMS contacts through the Messages app.

Send Audio Messages in the Messages App.

The Messages app allows you to record and send voice clips directly from the chat window.

1. Open Messages, and then tap the conversation where you want to send an audio message.
2. Tap the plus (+) icon next to the text field, and then select Audio.

A recording interface will appear at the bottom of the screen.

1. Tap the red Record button, and then start speaking clearly into your microphone.
2. When finished, tap the Stop icon, and then tap the Send arrow to send your voice message.

Your audio message will appear as a playable waveform bubble in the chat.

Listen or Re-Record Before Sending.

If you want to review what you recorded, you can play it back before sending.

1. After recording, tap the Play icon to listen.
2. If you’re not satisfied, tap the X to discard it, and then record again.

This way, you can make sure your message sounds exactly how you want it to.

Adjust Audio Message Expiration Settings.

By default, iOS 26 automatically deletes audio messages after two minutes to save storage. You can change this setting if you want to keep them longer.

1. Open Settings, and then tap Messages.
2. Scroll down to Audio Messages, and then tap Expire.

Select Never if you prefer to keep your recordings permanently.

Use Siri to Send Audio Messages.

If your hands are full, Siri can help you record and send audio messages without touching the screen.

1. Say “Hey Siri,” and then say Send an audio message to [contact name].
2. Record your message when prompted, and then say Send to confirm.

Siri will take care of recording and delivering your message instantly.

Audio messages make your conversations feel more natural and personal. Once you start using them, you’ll find it’s often faster and more meaningful than typing.

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