The popular messaging platform WhatsApp is testing a new feature called Guest Chats. The feature could allow users to send messages to people who do not have a WhatsApp account.
Currently, people must install WhatsApp to send and receive messages on the platform. However, the new feature may allow conversations through a browser without downloading the app.
The feature was discovered in the Android beta version 2.25.22.13. It is currently being tested with a small group of users. If the testing goes well, WhatsApp may introduce it to more users in the future.
Guest Chats could make communication easier for people who do not use the messaging app. Instead of asking someone to download WhatsApp, users can share an invitation link.
The link opens a conversation in the browser using WhatsApp Web. When the recipient clicks the link, they will see two options. They can download the app or continue the chat as a guest.
If the guest option is selected, the conversation opens in the web version of WhatsApp. The person can send messages without creating a full account. However, the chat only begins once the guest sends the first message.
Some beta testers on Android and iOS devices are already using this feature. Users can generate a guest invitation link from the “Invite a Friend” section or from the contacts list.
The link can be shared through SMS, email, or other messaging services. This makes it easier to contact people outside the WhatsApp platform.
Despite allowing guest access, the company says privacy remains a priority. Guest chats will still use end-to-end encryption. This means only the participants in the chat can read the messages.
When a guest joins a conversation, WhatsApp Web creates a unique identifier. This identifier helps generate the encryption key used to secure the chat.
Users can also verify the security using a QR code or security code. Before joining the chat, the guest must accept the platform’s terms of service.
Guests are also asked to enter a name before starting the conversation. This helps the inviter recognize who they are chatting with.
However, there are some limitations. Guest chats currently support only basic text messages. They do not support group chats, media sharing, stickers, voice messages, or calls.
Another restriction is that guest chats expire after ten days of inactivity. If the conversation needs to continue, a new invitation link must be created.
There are also security considerations. Anyone with access to the invitation link could join the conversation. Because of this, users should confirm the identity of the person before sharing sensitive information.
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For now, Guest Chats remain an experimental feature in the WhatsApp beta version. The company has not yet confirmed whether it will be released globally.
