Voice memos are the best way to talk to your friends. - Slate

But rather than giving them a call or sending a quick text, I like to send a voice memo.

Even a text demands a fast response; no one likes to be “left on read.” The expectation with voice memos seems to be that you respond when you have time to listen. It’s sort of like a voicemail, but way better.

When I want to update my friends on exciting developments, rather than tell them all individually—or god forbid start a group chat—I just create one voice memo and share it with a select group of friends.

As for the response to voice memos, it really depends on what the voice memo is about.

Sometimes, the recipient will share reactions via text, and then a more in-depth analysis (also via voice memo).

I do still call and text, and don’t use voice memos with everyone I talk to—I know my mom, an email person, would hate them.

Perhaps the best part about receiving voice memos is the ability to truly hear your friends.