WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will allow conversations with people who don't have their own WhatsApp account. These so-called guest chats are currently in a testing phase and are being rolled out gradually to beta testers.
After initially being tested in the Android beta, the feature is now also available to a small number of testers on iOS via TestFlight and in the WhatsApp Web beta.
Previously, a conversation via WhatsApp was only possible if both participants had a registered account. The new guest chat function partially relaxes this principle.
WhatsApp users will soon be able to create an invitation link for a chat. This link can be shared with people who don't have a WhatsApp account, allowing them to start a temporary conversation.
This is how WhatsApp guest chats work
The guest chat function is based on a simple process.
A WhatsApp user creates a chat link in the "Invite a friend" section. This link can then be sent via SMS or other apps (via WABetaInfo).
If someone without a WhatsApp account opens the link, a chat session starts via WhatsApp Web. Before the chat begins, the guest must:
- open the link
- accept the WhatsApp terms of service
- Enter a name
Only then can the conversation begin. It's important that the guest actively starts the chat after receiving the link. Furthermore, anyone with the invitation code can join the chat.
End-to-end encryption also for guests
Guest chats should also be protected by end-to-end encryption.
When a guest starts a chat, WhatsApp Web creates a unique identifier from which an encryption key is generated. This allows only the participants in the conversation to read the messages, while WhatsApp itself has no access to the content.
In the chat, the name of an unregistered user is also marked with "(Guest)". Additionally, a message appears indicating that the person is not registered with WhatsApp.
Current limitations of the function
The guest chat feature is still under development and currently only supports a limited range of functions. The following features are currently unavailable:
- Group chats
- Voice messages
- Attachments
- Stickers
- GIFs
- Voice and video calls
Furthermore, guest chats expire automatically if there is no activity for 10 days.
WhatsApp guest chats are intended to reach new users
The new guest chat feature could make WhatsApp more accessible to people who don't currently have an account. This could be particularly beneficial in markets like the US, where WhatsApp is less widespread, as it could lower the barrier to entry.
Currently, the feature is only available to a limited number of beta testers on Android, iOS, and the web. WhatsApp has not yet announced a date for a wider rollout. (Image: Shutterstock / miss.cabul)
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