WhatsApp is testing a new feature called “guest chats” that lets people chat without creating an account. The feature is now available for a limited number of beta testers on iOS, Android, and the web.
Guest chats were first tested on Android last August. Now, WhatsApp is expanding the test to iOS and web users. It lets a regular WhatsApp user send a link to anyone, even if they don’t have an account.
When someone opens the link, they can continue as a guest. WhatsApp creates a secure session with end-to-end encryption, so only the participants can read the messages. WhatsApp itself cannot see the conversation.
Guests must accept WhatsApp’s terms and provide a name to start chatting. Once they join, WhatsApp adds a “(Guest)” label next to their name and shows a disclaimer saying “Not registered with WhatsApp.”
Currently, guest chats are limited. Users cannot send voice messages, attachments, stickers, GIFs, or make calls. Group chats are also not supported, and the chats expire after 10 days of inactivity.
The main goal behind guest chats is to attract new users in markets where WhatsApp is less popular, like the United States. Guests can also sign up for a full account if they want.
Right now, there is no timeline for a full rollout, but the feature is slowly expanding to more beta testers across platforms.
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