The WhatsApp messaging application has begun testing a new feature that allows some users to invite people to a private conversation known as “Guest Chat” or “Guest Chat,” which is a way to communicate with those who do not have an account on the application.
This feature allows the user to send a secure link that allows the other party to enter the conversation via the browser, without the need to create a WhatsApp account, by opening the link sent by a person registered in the application.
How does the feature work?
The user can create an invitation link directly from the “Invite a Friend” option or from the bottom of the contacts list, as mentioned by the WABetaInfo website, which specializes in following WhatsApp updates. The link can then be sent via text message, or copied and shared via email or other messaging apps.
When the link is received, the other party can open it from their phone or computer and join the conversation as a guest. After opening the link, he is presented with two options: download WhatsApp or continue as a guest. When choosing the second option, the conversation opens via WhatsApp Web within the browser.
Although the account holder is the one who creates the link, it is the guest who actually initiates the conversation, and within the chat the description “Guest” appears in the top bar to indicate that the user is not registered in the app.
Complete encryption of conversations
WhatsApp has confirmed that guest conversations are protected with end-to-end encryption, which means that the content of messages can only be viewed by the participants in the conversation, even by WhatsApp itself.
This feature aims to make it easier to communicate with people who do not have an account on the app, and may help introduce new users to the service before creating a full account.
Limited features
Because they are intended for temporary use, guest chats come with limited capabilities, as they do not support:
Group conversations
Send photos, videos or documents
Stickers and voice messages
Voice or video calls
Access is also for basic text messaging only.
Conversation validity period
A guest conversation automatically expires after 10 days of inactivity, in which case a new link must be created to continue communicating with the same person.
Guests may not receive notifications of new messages, so it’s recommended to check the conversation manually to avoid missing any messages.
Availability date
The feature is currently available to a limited number of WhatsApp users who have installed the latest version of the application on iOS and Android, as it is being tested before being rolled out on a larger scale, without announcing an official date for making it available to all users yet. (Arabic)
