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Sana iOS App: Voice Chat

M
Written by Maureen Changawa
Updated over a month ago

Introduction

Voice Chat lets you have natural, hands-free conversations with Sana. Talk naturally to get answers, brainstorm ideas, or work through problems without typing, which is perfect when you're multitasking, driving, or just prefer to talk.


How to use the feature

Start Voice Chat

  1. Open the Chat tab

  2. Tap the microphone icon in the input bar

  3. Grant microphone permission if prompted

  4. Start speaking when you see the waveform animation

  5. Sana responds with voice and text

Voice Chat modes

Auto-Detect (default)

  • Sana listens continuously and responds when you pause

  • Most natural and hands-free

  • Works best in quiet environments

  • Great for focused brainstorming sessions

Push-to-Talk

  • Hold the microphone button to speak, release to listen

  • You control when Sana listens

  • Better in noisy places (cafés, offices, open floors)

  • More precise and deliberate interaction

You can switch between modes during a session using the Voice Chat UI.

Voice Chat controls

While Voice Chat is active, you can:

  • Mute Agent — Temporarily silence Sana's voice (text still appears)

  • Stop — End the voice session and return to text chat

  • Switch to text — Tap the keyboard icon to continue typing instead

Keep using other apps

Voice Chat continues running when you switch to other apps. Use your lock screen or Control Center to pause, resume, or stop playback. This is perfect for multitasking while brainstorming—keep Sana running while you take notes, review a document, or check your email.

Works with your headphones

Voice Chat automatically detects whatever audio device you have connected: AirPods, Bluetooth headphones, wired headphones, or your device speaker. No setup required.


When to use the feature

Voice Chat is perfect for:

  • Commuting or driving

  • Hands-free brainstorming sessions

  • When your hands are full (taking notes, presenting)

  • Quick questions while multitasking

  • Natural, conversational interaction

  • Noisy environments (use Push-to-Talk mode)

  • Extended conversations without typing


Tips for best experience

Audio quality

  • Use a stable Wi-Fi connection when possible for optimal latency

  • In Auto-Detect mode, speak in a normal conversational voice

  • In noisy environments, switch to Push-to-Talk for better recognition

  • Keep your microphone clean and not obstructed

Battery and data

  • Voice Chat uses more battery than text chat. Consider keeping your device plugged in for extended sessions

  • It works over cellular, but Wi-Fi is recommended for the best experience

  • Data usage is optimized for efficiency


Troubleshooting

Voice Chat won't start or connect

  • Check Settings → Sana → Microphone is enabled

  • Verify you have a stable Wi-Fi or cellular connection

  • Force close the app and reopen

  • Restart your device if issues persist

Poor audio quality or dropouts

  • Move closer to your Wi-Fi router

  • Switch to Push-to-Talk mode if in a noisy environment

  • Reduce microphone sensitivity if picking up background noise

  • Try again over a stronger connection

Battery drains quickly

  • Voice Chat uses more power than text chat

  • Keep your device plugged in for extended sessions

  • Close other apps running in the background


FAQ

Q. Does Voice Chat work over cellular?
​A. Yes, but Wi-Fi is recommended. Voice Chat is optimized for data efficiency, but Wi-Fi provides better latency and quality.

Q. Which mode should I use?
​A. Use Auto-Detect in quiet rooms. Switch to Push-to-Talk in noisy places for better accuracy and control.

Q. Can I use it with AirPods Pro or other Bluetooth headphones?
​A. Yes. Voice Chat automatically detects and uses whatever audio device is connected.

Q. Why is the audio quality poor?
​A. Move closer to your Wi-Fi router, switch to Push-to-Talk mode if in a noisy environment, or try again over a stronger connection.

Q. Will Voice Chat drain my battery?
​A. Yes, it uses more power than text chat. Keep your device plugged in for long sessions, and close other apps running in the background.


For further questions or information about Sana Agents, please contact [email protected] via email.

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