Facebook has began testing a new feature which transcribes audio clips sent via Facebook Messenger, AceShowbiz reports.

The option will give users the choice to listen to the audio clip as normal but will also provide a transcription underneath.

Audio transcription for Facebook Messenger is still in its early stages, so only a limited number of users will see the feature for now.

Facebook's vice president in charge of Messenger wrote on the social network: "Today we are starting to roll out a small test that helps people read the voice clips they receive instead of having to play them out loud.

"So, for example, if you're at a concert or in a meeting, and would prefer to read a voice clip from a friend, you now can if you're part of the small test we're rolling out.

"Our plan is to test this feature at a tiny scale for now and we're looking forward to seeing what you think of it before making the experience more widely available."

The most recent stats indicate that Facebook Messenger now has more than 500 million active users a month.