With just a link and no download or signup required, users of WhatsApp, the well-known instant messaging service owned by Meta, may soon be able to message those who do not have the app thanks to a new feature called “guest chats.”
This upcoming feature, which was discovered in the most recent WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.25.22.13 by WABetaInfo, a well-known WhatsApp tipster publication, will let users create a private chat link and send it to anybody via social media, email, or text.
The recipient can join the one-on-one, end-to-end encrypted chat right away by opening the link in their browser; they don’t even need to install the app or register for a WhatsApp account.
The Action of Guest Chats:
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A WhatsApp user generates a special chat link and distributes it via email, text message, and other social media
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channels.To join the chat, the recipient—who does not require a WhatsApp account—clicks the link in a browser, most likely using a streamlined interface akin to WhatsApp Web.
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Similar to standard WhatsApp conversations, the chat is private and one-on-one, and it is encrypted.
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It is not necessary for the guest or recipient to install the app or register for a WhatsApp account.
But there are restrictions:
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Group chats are not allowed; guest chats must be one-on-one only.
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No sharing of voice messages, GIFs, videos, or images.
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There is no support for voice or video calls.
Although the restrictions might appear onerous, they are purposefully maintained in order to provide quick, easy, and secure communication without necessitating a sustained commitment.
Privacy and security will continue to be top priorities
Guest chats will still be encrypted end-to-end, meaning that nobody, not even WhatsApp, can read the messages, even if there isn’t an app. This is in line with WhatsApp’s larger initiatives to adhere to the Digital Markets Act of the EU, which mandates cross-platform compatibility for messaging apps.
Availability
A official launch date has not yet been fixed. Even in the beta build, the guest chat feature is still in the development stage and cannot be tested. As the launch date approaches, we can anticipate receiving more information.
Although guest chats are still a sneak peek at things to come, they are a definite step in the direction of something more flexible, open, and accessible—all without sacrificing privacy.
