WhatsApp to get a long-awaited feature

WhatsApp is developing a new feature called “Guest Chats,” which will allow messenger users to communicate with people who are not registered in the app. This was reported by the WABetaInfo portal, which discovered the new feature in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android (2.25.22.13). The feature is currently in development and not yet available even to beta testers, but its introduction could be a major step toward expanding the platform’s audience.

How Will “Guest Chats” Work?
The new feature will allow users to initiate a conversation with someone who does not have a WhatsApp account through a special invitation link. Here’s how it works:

• The user creates a new chat and selects the “Guest Chat” option.
• WhatsApp generates a unique link that can be sent via any communication channel (e.g., SMS, email, or another messenger).
• The recipient follows the link and opens WhatsApp’s web interface (similar to WhatsApp Web), where the text chat immediately begins.
• Communication has no time limit but supports only text messages. Sending media files (photos, videos, GIFs), stickers, documents, as well as voice and video calls is not available.

All messages in “Guest Chats” are protected by end-to-end encryption, just like standard WhatsApp conversations, which ensures privacy. If the recipient later registers in the messenger, they will be able to save the guest chat and continue it in a regular format with full functionality.

Limitations and Features
“Guest Chats” have a number of limitations compared to regular chats:

• Support for text messages only, no media, stickers, voice, or video messages.
• No ability to make video or voice calls.
• The feature is limited to individual chats and does not support group conversations.

These limitations are likely aimed at simplifying implementation and encouraging unregistered users to eventually create a WhatsApp account to access the full range of features.

Why Is WhatsApp Introducing This Feature?
According to WABetaInfo, “Guest Chats” are a strategic move by Meta to attract new users. The ability to communicate without installing the app or registering lowers the barrier for those who previously did not use WhatsApp. This is especially relevant in regions where other messengers, such as iMessage or Telegram, are more popular. The feature integrates WhatsApp into a broader communication ecosystem while maintaining control over the platform and ensuring security through end-to-end encryption.

Moreover, “Guest Chats” differ from third-party integrations that WhatsApp is implementing in accordance with EU interoperability requirements. This feature is fully integrated into the WhatsApp ecosystem, ensuring a seamless user experience.

When Will the Feature Be Released?
At the moment, “Guest Chats” are in development and not yet available even to beta testers. The exact release date in the stable version of WhatsApp has not been announced, but the feature is expected to appear in one of the major updates in the coming months.

Other WhatsApp Innovations
In addition to “Guest Chats,” WhatsApp is actively developing other features:

• Guest Event Participants: In beta version 2.25.3.17, users can now invite guests to events created in group or individual chats. Additional participants can be added via the “Allow Guests” option without needing to create separate groups.
• Group Chat Improvements: A real-time participant activity indicator has been introduced, along with notification management for specific interactions (mentions, replies), and the ability to add participants to calls directly from the chat.
• Document Scanning: iOS users now have a built-in document scanning feature, making it easier to send files without third-party apps.
• Expanded Privacy: The Advanced Chat Privacy feature allows blocking chat exports, auto-downloading of media, and use of messages for AI features, which is especially useful in groups with unknown participants.

Conclusion
The “Guest Chats” feature promises to be a significant innovation for WhatsApp, enabling communication with unregistered users through a web interface without installing the app. Despite its limitations (text only, no media or calls), it maintains a high level of security thanks to end-to-end encryption. This is a step by Meta toward expanding its audience and simplifying access to the messenger, which could attract new users. We look forward to further news about the launch timeline and potential improvements in future updates.