Want to share a long voice recording, podcast, or audio message with friends on WhatsApp or Telegram? These apps have file size limits that can block your uploads. Here's how to split audio for WhatsApp and other messaging apps quickly and easily.
Messaging App Audio Limits
Each messaging app has different limits for audio files:
| App | Max File Size | Recommended Chunk |
|---|---|---|
| 16 MB (64 MB for some regions) | 3-5 minutes | |
| Telegram | 2 GB | Any size (but consider data usage) |
| Facebook Messenger | 25 MB | 5-10 minutes |
| iMessage | 100 MB | 15-20 minutes |
| Discord | 8 MB (free) / 50 MB (Nitro) | 2-3 minutes (free) |
| Slack | 1 GB | Any reasonable size |
WhatsApp Audio Limits Explained
- Standard limit: 16 MB per file
- Voice messages: Up to 15 minutes in-app recording
- At 128kbps MP3: ~16 MB = ~16 minutes of audio
- Recommendation: Split into 3-5 minute chunks for reliability
Telegram
- File limit: 2 GB (very generous!)
- Voice messages: No practical limit
- Why still split? Easier navigation, lower data usage for recipients
- Recommendation: 10-15 minute chunks for long content
How to Split Audio for WhatsApp
Follow these steps to prepare your long recording for WhatsApp sharing:
1 Open ChunkAudio
Go to chunkaudio.com on your phone or computer. No app download needed.
2 Upload Your Recording
Tap "Select Audio File" and choose your voice recording, podcast, or audio file.
3 Set Chunk Duration
For WhatsApp, enter 5:00 (5 minutes) to stay safely under the 16MB limit. This gives you a buffer for higher-quality recordings.
4 Split and Download
Tap "Split Audio" and download the ZIP file containing all your chunks.
5 Share on WhatsApp
Open WhatsApp, select a chat, tap the attachment icon, and send each chunk as a separate audio file.
Pro Tip: Number your files (Part 1, Part 2, etc.) so your recipient knows the listening order. ChunkAudio automatically numbers chunks for you!
Calculating the Right Chunk Size
File size depends on audio quality (bitrate). Here's a quick reference:
| Audio Quality | Size per Minute | Max Duration for 16MB |
|---|---|---|
| Voice (64 kbps) | ~0.5 MB | ~32 minutes |
| Standard (128 kbps) | ~1 MB | ~16 minutes |
| High Quality (256 kbps) | ~2 MB | ~8 minutes |
| CD Quality (320 kbps) | ~2.4 MB | ~6.5 minutes |
For voice recordings (lectures, conversations, podcasts), 5-minute chunks at standard quality work perfectly for WhatsApp.
Tips for Sharing Long Audio
For Voice Notes and Lectures
- Use 5-minute chunks for WhatsApp
- Enable silence detection to avoid cutting mid-sentence
- Consider compressing to 64kbps for even smaller files
For Music and Podcasts
- Use 10-15 minute chunks for Telegram
- Keep original quality (128-320 kbps) for music
- Label chunks clearly (Part 1 of 4, etc.)
For Group Sharing
- Warn the group that multiple parts are coming
- Send parts in quick succession so they stay together
- Consider creating a broadcast list for one-way sharing
Common Questions
Why not just use a cloud link?
You can share via Google Drive or Dropbox, but recipients prefer direct audio they can play in-app without leaving WhatsApp. Split files provide a better experience.
Will splitting reduce quality?
No! ChunkAudio preserves your original audio quality. Learn more about lossless splitting.
Can I do this on my phone?
Yes! ChunkAudio works in any mobile browser - no app needed. Just open chunkaudio.com on Safari or Chrome.
Ready to Share Your Audio?
Split your recording for WhatsApp or Telegram in under a minute. Free and private.
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