How to Send Voice Messages on iPhone 13

Tired of typing out long texts? Want to add more personality to your messages? Voice messaging on the iPhone 13 is quick, easy, and surprisingly useful. With just a few taps, you can record and send audio messages directly in the Messages app—no need for third-party tools.

Here’s how to use voice messages on your iPhone 13 like a pro.

Step 1: Make Sure iMessage Is Enabled

Voice messages require iMessage, so first make sure it’s turned on.

Open Settings.
Tap Messages.
Toggle on iMessage.

Note: Both you and the person you’re messaging must have iMessage enabled (blue chat bubbles, not green).

Step 2: Record and Send a Voice Message

Once you’re in an iMessage conversation, here’s how to send an audio message:

Open the Messages app and tap an iMessage thread.
Tap the + icon to the left of the text input box.
Select Audio from the menu.
Record your message by holding the red mic button.
Tap the stop icon when you’re done recording.
Tap play to review the message if you’d like.
Tap the send arrow to send it.

That’s it—your voice message is on its way.

Step 3: Listen to Incoming Voice Messages

When you receive a voice message:

Tap the waveform icon to play it.
Or raise the phone to your ear to play it automatically using the proximity sensor.

By default, iOS will auto-delete voice messages two minutes after you listen to them.

To keep one, just tap Keep beneath the message before it disappears.

Step 4: Turn Off Auto-Delete (Optional)

If you want to save all audio messages automatically:

Open Settings > Messages.
Scroll down and tap Expire under Audio Messages.
Change it from After 2 Minutes to Never.

Now your voice messages won’t auto-delete.

Alternative: Use Voice Memos for Non-iMessage Contacts

Want to send voice messages to Android users or through other apps?

Open the Voice Memos app.
Tap the record button and speak your message.
Tap stop, then tap the share icon.
Choose Messages, Mail, or any other app to send it.

Bonus Tip: Set a Custom Voicemail Greeting

To add a personal touch when someone calls you:

Open the Phone app.
Go to the Voicemail tab.
Tap Greeting > Custom > Record.
Tap Stop, then Save.

Why Use Voice Messages?

Express tone and emotion clearly
Easier than typing long texts
No character limits
More natural for storytelling or giving instructions

Just remember: voice messages are less discreet than texts and use more data.