The conversation works through a browser interface, which resembles WhatsApp Web. These guest chats only support one-on-one communication. Group messaging is not included. Media sharing is also blocked, including photos, videos, audio, or calls. The system handles basic messaging only.
End-to-end encryption is still applied. This means messages in the session remain visible only to the two participants. WhatsApp manages the interaction internally. No third-party software or service is involved in the exchange.
The feature may connect with broader changes linked to European regulations. WhatsApp has also been working on tools that let users manage how their account interacts with external apps. These controls include the option to allow or block third-party connections. The goal is to increase control over privacy. Guest chats, however, are separate. They operate entirely inside WhatsApp’s platform.
The company has not confirmed when the tool will be available publicly. The current test is limited to beta users. Details about how long chat links remain active are also unclear. Users may need to generate a new link each time.
A second update included in the same beta series adds a shortcut to profile settings. This appears as a profile icon in the top bar of the Chats screen. Tapping it opens the user’s account page. It allows for quicker access to profile details without opening the full settings menu.
Some testers received a similar feature in past versions. It was removed during earlier interface updates. The new version focuses only on the profile section and avoids broader settings access. The shortcut may help users who switch between personal and work accounts by making the active profile easier to identify.
The profile icon is now more visible. It remains fixed in the same spot, making it easy to locate. This may lead some users to update their profile details more often.
Both features, guest messaging and the new shortcut, are in testing and are not yet part of the standard release. They are available in select Android beta builds distributed through the Google Play Store. A wider rollout will likely follow based on feedback and testing results.
Notes: This post was edited/created using GenAI tools.
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