WhatsApp is testing a new feature called Guest Chats that could change the way we message. It lets users chat with people who don’t have a WhatsApp account. The update appeared in Android beta version 2.25.22.13 and is expected to come to iOS as well.
This feature allows you to talk with someone without asking them to install the app. It works through a secure link, opening a browser-based chat window.
What Are Guest Chats?
Guest Chats let WhatsApp users send a link to non-users. The person who receives the link clicks on it and opens a chat in their web browser. It’s similar to how WhatsApp Web works.
The biggest benefit? The non-WhatsApp user doesn’t need to install anything or create an account.
WhatsApp still protects these chats with end-to-end encryption, which means only the two people in the chat can read the messages.
How It Works
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- A WhatsApp user generates a secure chat link.
- They share it via SMS, email, or any messaging app.
- The recipient clicks the link and starts chatting in their browser.
This feature is ideal for one-time conversations or business chats where the other person isn’t on WhatsApp. Here is what the chat looks like.
What You Can—and Can’t—Do
Guest Chats are designed for basic messaging only. That means:
❌ You can’t send photos, videos, stickers, or voice notes.
❌ You can’t make calls or send files.
❌ You can’t invite guest users to groups.
✅ You can send and receive text messages securely.
These limits may disappoint some users. But for many, quick and private one-on-one messaging is enough.
Why This Matters
WhatsApp’s move toward Guest Chats likely ties into EU regulations. The Digital Markets Act (DMA) now requires major messaging apps to allow cross-platform communication.
While WhatsApp hasn’t confirmed this link, the timing fits. The EU wants tech giants to open their platforms and allow users to communicate freely—even across competing services.
Guest Chats could be WhatsApp’s first step toward full interoperability.
Security and Privacy Still a Priority
Even without a WhatsApp account, guest chat users still enjoy strong privacy. All chats are encrypted using the same Signal Protocol as standard WhatsApp messages.
This ensures that messages stay private—even though one party isn’t using the app.
Users will also be able to control guest chats. They can choose whether or not to accept them, or turn them off entirely.
Who Can Use It Now?
Right now, the feature is limited to beta testers on Android. WhatsApp hasn’t shared a launch date yet. However, since the beta version is live, the full release may not be far away.
iOS users are expected to get the feature in an upcoming update.
Real-World Use Cases
Guest Chats could be useful in many situations:
- A business wants to chat with a customer who doesn’t use WhatsApp.
- A support team wants to offer quick help without app downloads.
- A one-time contact doesn’t want to register for the app.
This makes WhatsApp more flexible, especially for businesses using WhatsApp Business.
READ MORE: WhatsApp Under Fire in Russia as Kremlin Pushes State Messaging App
Final Thoughts
The Guest Chats feature marks a big shift for WhatsApp. For the first time, it lets users talk to people outside the app—without asking them to join.
Although it’s still in testing, the potential is huge. It could lead to more open communication between apps and reduce dependence on single platforms.
We’ll continue tracking the rollout and share updates as WhatsApp expands the feature.
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