WhatsApp is testing a guest chats feature that will allow messaging people who do not have a WhatsApp account. The feature was first seen by WABetaInfo in the Android beta version 2.25.22.13 and is expected to roll out to Android and iOS apps in a future update.
How Guest Chats Work
The feature enables WhatsApp users to create a secure chat link that can be shared via text message, email, or social media. When a recipient opens the link, they are directed to a web-based interface similar to WhatsApp Web, which they can use to message a WhatsApp user without having an account.
Here is what the chat looks like.
From here, the non‑WhatsApp user can send and receive text messages with end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the participants can read the conversation.
Feature Limitations
But there are a few limitations too. Guest chats are limited to basic messaging, meaning these chats cannot:
- Send or receive media files, stickers, GIFs, or documents
- Use voice notes, video messages, or calls
- Join group chats
These limitations make the feature suitable for simple one-on-one communication rather than a full WhatsApp experience.
WhatsApp maintains end-to-end encryption for guest chats, ensuring that messages remain private even though one party is not using an official account.
The new guest chats may have to do with the European Union’s requirements for interoperability, forcing major messaging platforms to offer cross‑platform communication options.
The feature is currently in beta testing and has not yet been released to the general public. WhatsApp has not announced an official launch date, but broader availability is expected soon.