Jakarta, INTI - WhatsApp is preparing a new feature that allows users to send messages to people without a WhatsApp account. This feature, called Guest Chat, is being tested by several beta users on Android and iOS. However, there is no certainty about when it will be available globally.
Through this feature, users can create an invitation link directly from the app to start a conversation. This link can be opened by anyone, even those without a WhatsApp account, via the mobile app or desktop browser.
Users who join will be marked as "Guest" in the conversation. However, WhatsApp ensures that end-to-end encryption remains in effect, so messages remain private between participants.
However, there are risks in using this feature. Because there is no account verification, anyone with the link can potentially enter the chat. Therefore, users are advised to be careful when sharing the invitation links and avoid sending messages containing sensitive information.
Guest User Mode Limitation
The guest chat feature has limitations. Guest users cannot send photos, videos, documents, or make voice and video calls. They also cannot join group chats.
The conversations in guest chat are also temporary. Chats will be automatically deleted after 10 days of inactivity, and users will need to create a new link to resume communication.
WhatsApp also recently rolled out other updates, including parent-managed accounts for children under 13 and a feature that allows new group members to follow conversations by viewing recent chat history.
The company is also testing a possible subscription plan that would put some advanced features behind a paid service.
Conclusion
WhatsApp is doing beta tests for a feature, named Guest Chat, that allows users to send invitation links to people without WhatsApp accounts. The link can be opened by anyone, but end-to-end encryption remains in effect. The feature has limitations for guest users. They cannot send photos, videos, documents, or make voice and video calls. Conversations in guest chat will be automatically deleted after 10 days of inactivity. It is not certain when the feature will be available globally.
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