Facebook users on iOS and Android devices can now send and receive voice messages using the latest Facebook Messenger app.

Till now, Facebook users could only send standard text and photo messages using the Facebook Messenger app, but now users can also record a voice message and send it to friends. Reports also indicate that Facebook will be testing the VoIP calling feature within its iOS Messenger app, allowing users to establish a peer-to-peer connection and make calls.

However, voice calling facility will only be available to Canadian users of the iOS Facebook Messenger app at launch. If you are a Canadian user, then you will have to log on to the Facebook Messenger app, open a conversation with the person, tap on the "I" button in the top-right corner and select "Free Call."

Voice messaging could also be popular for other purposes. For example, the voice messaging service will be able to help blind or partially blind people to record sounds and send to friends and vice-versa.

The latest Facebook feature can be advantageous if you are connected to a Wi-Fi network and send a voice messaging, or voice call over VoIP (if you are a Canadian user) without using your precious data or voice minutes.

The latest Facebook Messenger App, updated on Jan. 3, for Android (version 2.2.4) and iOS (version 2.1) can be downloaded for free from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.