WhatsApp Guest Chats coming soon – The dawn of messaging interoperability
WhatsApp is preparing to take another significant step toward greater messaging flexibility and user control. According to recent reports from WABeta, the popular messaging platform is actively developing new features in its Android beta, including innovative tools for managing third-party chats and an upcoming WhatsApp Guest Chats capability that will allow communication with people who do not have a WhatsApp account.
Expanding Messaging Horizons and User Autonomy
In its earlier beta for Android 2.24.6.2, WhatsApp began working on features that allow users to manage third-party chats. These controls are designed to let users determine how, and if, they interact with external messaging services. The new settings will allow users to disable chat interoperability entirely or selectively choose which third-party applications can exchange messages with WhatsApp. This move is closely aligned with European Union regulations emphasizing user choice and privacy, ensuring people have clear, granular control over their digital communications.
Building on this, WABeta has now discovered that the latest WhatsApp beta for Android (2.25.22.13) introduces a feature that goes even further: “guest chats.” This tool is designed to enable WhatsApp users to communicate directly with individuals who have not yet signed up for WhatsApp, all while maintaining end-to-end encryption and privacy.
How Will WhatsApp Guest Chats Work?
With the guest chat feature, WhatsApp users will be able to invite someone from their contacts—even if that person doesn’t have WhatsApp installed. The invited guest will receive a secure link, which can be sent via text message, email, or any other method. When opened, this link grants access to a chat session with the WhatsApp user, without requiring the guest to download the app or create an account.
These guest chats are intended for one-on-one conversations only; group chats are not supported for non-users. There are also some restrictions: media sharing (photos, videos, GIFs), voice and video messages, and calls will not be available in guest chats. This streamlined approach keeps the experience simple, focused on text-based communication.
Importantly, despite the fact that one participant is not a full WhatsApp user, all messages within guest chats will still be protected by end-to-end encryption. This means that only the participants in the conversation have access to the content, maintaining WhatsApp’s core commitment to privacy and security.
Technical Insights and Platform Implications
Although WhatsApp has not yet detailed all the technical aspects, WABeta suggests that guest chats may leverage a web-based interface similar to WhatsApp Web. In this scenario, guests can access a private and encrypted chat session through their browser, rather than needing to install any software.
WhatsApp Guest Chats serve as a bridge for bringing more people into the WhatsApp ecosystem by providing a frictionless introduction. For regular users, it offers a new way to connect with friends, colleagues, or contacts who have not yet adopted the platform.
As with any upcoming feature, details may evolve before the official rollout. WhatsApp is expected to provide more information and technical clarifications once guest chats are ready for launch.
What’s Next?
The ability to message non-WhatsApp users directly is still in development and scheduled for a future update. Users can expect more news as WhatsApp finalizes the details and prepares for public release. WABeta will continue to monitor updates and provide further insights as the feature progresses.
