Anthropic has officially begun rolling out a new “voice mode” feature for its Claude chatbot applications. Currently in beta, this innovative voice mode enables users of the Claude mobile app to engage in “complete spoken conversations with Claude.” As shared via Anthropic’s official account on X and through updated documentation on their website, the voice mode will initially be available in English and will gradually become accessible over the next few weeks.
Reports indicate that at least one user on X gained early access to the voice mode late Tuesday, signaling the feature's impending launch. By default, this voice mode operates using Anthropic’s proprietary Claude Sonnet 4 model. According to a support page detailing the functionality, “Voice mode … enables you to speak to Claude and hear responses through voice, making it easier to use Claude when your hands are busy but your mind isn’t.” This feature significantly transforms user interaction with Claude by displaying key points on-screen while Claude speaks and allowing for fluid voice conversations.
Several AI companies have ventured into the realm of voice chat experiences for their respective chatbots. Notably, OpenAI offers similar capabilities, while Google has launched its Gemini Live feature. Additionally, xAI has introduced Voice Mode for its Grok chatbot. Each of these platforms allows users to converse with bots through spoken language rather than traditional typing, creating a more natural and intuitive conversational experience.
With Anthropic’s voice mode, users can discuss a variety of topics, including documents and images, enhancing the overall versatility of the chatbot. The feature offers five distinct voice options, allowing users to select a voice that best suits their preferences. Furthermore, users have the flexibility to switch seamlessly between text and voice interactions, and they can view a transcript and summary of their conversations post-discussion.
While the voice mode offers exciting new functionalities, it does come with certain limitations. Voice conversations contribute to regular usage caps, with most free users expected to have access to around 20-30 conversations. Moreover, the capability to connect with Google Workspace tools is reserved for paid Claude subscribers, enabling them to access Google Calendar appointments and Gmail emails. Notably, Google Docs integration is exclusive to users with Claude Enterprise plans.
During an interview with the Financial Times in early March, Anthropic’s Chief Product Officer Mike Krieger confirmed that the company was actively developing voice capabilities for Claude. Reports suggest that Anthropic has been in discussions with Amazon, a key investor and partner, as well as ElevenLabs, a voice-focused AI startup, to potentially enhance future voice features for Claude. However, it remains unclear which partnerships, if any, have resulted in tangible advancements.
