WhatsApp is testing a new feature called guest chats that lets users start conversations with people who do not have a WhatsApp account. The feature enables simple communication via a secure web link, so the other person does not need to install the app or create an account to reply. This approach helps WhatsApp users reach contacts who still rely on SMS or other messaging platforms.
The feature works via an invite link generated in the “Invite a friend” section of WhatsApp. Once the user sends the link through SMS, email, or another messaging app, the recipient opens it in a browser and starts a temporary chat through WhatsApp Web. The guest enters a name and begins the conversation directly from the web interface.
WABetaInfo reported that the feature is now appearing for a limited number of beta testers on iOS, Android, and the web after earlier testing on Android.
“Once users continue as a guest, WhatsApp Web generates a unique identifier that’s used to create the encryption key. This means that guest chats are secured by end-to-end encryption.”
That security setup means only the participants in the conversation can read the messages. WhatsApp cannot see the content, and the encryption key generates automatically when the guest joins the chat.
Guest chats follow a simple process that focuses on quick communication.
- A WhatsApp user creates a chat invite link from the “Invite a friend” section
- The user shares the link through SMS, email, or another messaging platform
- The recipient opens the link in a browser and chooses “continue as guest”
- The guest accepts WhatsApp’s terms and enters a display name
- The guest starts the conversation from WhatsApp Web
WhatsApp also adds a “Guest” label inside the chat interface so the account holder clearly sees that the person is not registered with WhatsApp.
Current limitations of guest chats
The feature focuses on temporary messaging, so several WhatsApp tools remain unavailable.
- No group chats
- No photos, videos, or file attachments
- No stickers, GIFs, or voice messages
- No voice or video calls
Guest chats also expire after 10 days of inactivity, which means users must create a new invite link if they want to continue the conversation later.
Right now WhatsApp is testing guest chats with a small number of beta users across Android, iOS, and the web. The company has not shared a timeline for a wider rollout, so many users will need to wait before they can start inviting guests into chats.
