
In an effort to expand its accessibility, WhatsApp is preparing to roll out a new feature called guest chats. This upcoming update will allow users to connect with people who do not have WhatsApp accounts. The goal is to enable seamless, cross-platform conversations without requiring downloads or sign-ups, enhancing the platform’s flexibility and user-friendliness.
Unlike traditional messaging services, this feature will function entirely within WhatsApp’s secure environment. With this change, users will soon be able to interact with non-users through a private link that opens a chat in their browser. This advancement paves the way for easier communication, especially in cases where downloading the app may not be possible or preferred.
How Guest Chats Will Work
Once launched, the feature will allow WhatsApp users to send unique links to people outside the platform. These links can be shared via SMS, email, or other messaging apps. Upon clicking, recipients will gain access to a one-on-one chat window directly from their browser, without needing to register or install the app.
Because everything occurs within WhatsApp’s ecosystem, users will benefit from a familiar interface and the same security measures. However, some restrictions will apply. For instance, media sharing will not be available. Guests will only be able to send and receive text messages. Furthermore, voice and video messaging will be disabled, and calls will not be supported.
Group chats are also excluded for guest users. Initially, the feature will support only direct conversations, which may be limiting but still useful for brief or urgent exchanges.
Privacy and the Road Ahead
Despite opening up to non-users, WhatsApp maintains its commitment to privacy. End-to-end encryption will remain intact for all guest chat sessions, ensuring that messages stay private between the participants. Guests, while not registered users, will still communicate within an encrypted browser-based setup, similar to WhatsApp Web.
Looking forward, this feature could serve as a gentle introduction to WhatsApp for those who are hesitant about installing the app. Although specific details—such as chat expiration times and identity verification methods—remain unreleased, the addition of guest chats signals a more open and inclusive direction for the platform.
As development continues, users can expect this feature to arrive in an upcoming update, providing greater communication freedom across digital platforms.