WhatsApp is the world’s most popular messaging app, but until now, using it required creating an account and installing the app. Now, the company is testing a new feature called Guest Chats, which allows you to chat on WhatsApp without signing up for an account.
This feature is currently in the beta version (testing stage), which means only selected users can try it for now. In this article, we’ll explain in simple language what this feature is, how it works, its advantages, limitations, privacy concerns, and how you can access it.
What is the WhatsApp Guest Chats Feature?
Guest Chat is like a “visitor chat” where a WhatsApp user can have a conversation with someone who doesn’t have a WhatsApp account.
How does it work?
- The WhatsApp user generates a special link.
- They send this link to the person they want to chat with.
- The other person clicks the link and opens a chat window in their web browser.
It’s similar to how you can join a Zoom meeting with just a link — no account required.
How Does WhatsApp Guest Chats Work? — Step-by-Step
- Generate the link – Inside the WhatsApp app, there will be a new option called “Guest Chat” or “Invite Link”.
- Share the link – The link can be sent via SMS, email, or any other messaging platform.
- Open the chat in a browser – The recipient clicks the link, and a WhatsApp-like chat window will open in their browser.
- Start real-time text messaging – Both parties can send and receive text messages instantly.
What You Can and Can’t Do (For Now)
What You Can Do in WhatsApp Guest Chats
- Send and receive text messages.
- See typing status in real-time.
- Chat history will be available for that session only.
What You Can’t Do in WhatsApp Guest Chats
- Send photos, videos, or documents.
- Make voice or video calls.
- Send voice messages.
- Join group chats.
Reason: The feature is still in its early testing stage, so it has limited capabilities.
Privacy and Security
WhatsApp claims that all its chats are protected with End-to-End Encryption (meaning only the sender and receiver can read the messages). Reports suggest that this security will also apply to Guest Chats.
However, since access is link-based, you need to be careful:
- If the link is shared with the wrong person, they could also join the chat.
- Share the link only with trusted people.
- If WhatsApp adds an expire or cancel link option, use it immediately after the chat.
Who Will Benefit the Most?
Event Organizers
They can share a QR code or link with attendees for instant communication during events.
Business Owners
Can connect with customers who don’t have WhatsApp without asking them to install the app.
Emergency Situations
When you need to urgently send a message to someone who doesn’t have WhatsApp, this feature can be very helpful.
How to Get WhatsApp Guest Chats Feature
- For Android users: Join the WhatsApp Beta Program via the Google Play Store.
- For iPhone users: Join WhatsApp Beta through the TestFlight app (limited slots available).
- Once your app is updated to beta and this feature is activated, you’ll see an option like “Start Guest Chat” or “Share Guest Link” in the settings.
As reported by iThinkDiff, WhatsApp is testing a new Guest Chats feature in its Android beta (version 2.25.22.13), allowing users to message others without needing them to register or install the app.
Why is WhatsApp Introducing This Change?
Many tech experts believe this update is influenced by the DMA (Digital Markets Act) in Europe, which requires major messaging platforms to become more interoperable (able to work with other platforms). It could also be a way for WhatsApp to reach new users who, for various reasons, have not yet joined the platform.
Potential Challenges
- Risk of link misuse if it falls into the wrong hands.
- Lack of media sharing limits its usefulness for some cases.
- The feature won’t work without internet access.
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What Changes Can We Expect in the Future?
As beta features improve over time, it’s likely that future updates may include:
- Ability to share photos, videos, and documents.
- Option for voice and video calls.
- Security options like password-protected links or OTP access.
What is the Guest Chat feature?
A new WhatsApp feature that lets you chat with someone without requiring them to have a WhatsApp account.
Can I send media files in WhatsApp Guest Chats?
Not yet — currently, it’s limited to text messages only.
Is WhatsApp Guest Chats secure?
Yes, it will have End-to-End Encryption, but you must keep the link safe.
Conclusion
The WhatsApp Guest Chats feature could be a major change for WhatsApp, especially in situations where the other person doesn’t have the app. While it’s currently limited — no media sharing, no calls, no group chats — it’s still a promising step toward making WhatsApp more accessible.
With the right safety measures and future updates, Guest Chats could become a very useful tool for personal, business, and emergency communication.
