How to convert a WhatsApp voice note to MP3
WhatsApp saves voice messages as .opus files that many players cannot open. How to find the file on Android or iPhone, and turn it into an MP3.
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In short: WhatsApp voice messages are Opus audio files. Save the message out of the chat, then convert the .opus file to MP3 with the OPUS to MP3 converter. The whole thing runs in your browser, so the recording is never uploaded.
Finding the file
On Android, voice notes are stored under Android/media/com.whatsapp/WhatsApp/Media/WhatsApp Voice Notes, in folders by week. A file manager app can reach them.
On an iPhone, press and hold the voice message, tap Forward, then the share button, and choose Save to Files.
Why the file will not play
Opus is an excellent codec for speech, which is why WhatsApp uses it: a minute of voice is around 100 KB. Windows Media Player, older car stereos and many editing programs do not support it. MP3 plays on everything.
Choosing a bitrate
A voice note is recorded at a low bitrate, so there is nothing to gain from a high one. 64 kbps MP3 keeps everything a voice note has; 128 kbps is more than enough.
Questions
What format are WhatsApp voice notes?
Opus audio, saved with the .opus extension.
Is it private?
Yes. The conversion happens in your browser and the file is never uploaded.