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WhatsApp Tests ‘Guest Chats’ That Let People Join Conversations Without an Account

The trials impose time-limited, encrypted conversations with basic messaging only.

Overview

  • The feature is in limited beta on Android, iOS and WhatsApp Web, using unique invite links that open in a browser on phones or computers.
  • Invitees can choose to download the app or continue as guests, who provide a display name and receive a security code under end-to-end encryption.
  • Guest chats allow only text messaging, with no groups, media attachments, stickers, voice notes or calls, and they expire after 10 days of inactivity.
  • Hosts generate links from the Invite a Friend section or the contacts list and can block unwanted participants if a link is misused.
  • Meta has not announced a general release date, and reports indicate guests may not receive push notifications for new messages.