WhatsApp is testing a feature called ‘Guest Chats’ that allows people to use the platform without creating an account or installing the application. This new functionality is currently rolling out to a limited number of beta testers on Android and iOS as of March 2026.

Guests can join conversations through a secure link generated by a registered user. This link can be shared via SMS, email, or other platforms, and it opens in WhatsApp Web on either a mobile or desktop browser. Once they join, guests can enter a display name, and their profile is labeled with a ‘Guest’ tag for the registered user to see.

Each guest session generates a unique identifier that creates an encryption key, ensuring that messages remain private. According to WABetaInfo, “WhatsApp cannot see the content of the messages, and only the participants in the conversation can read them.” This feature aims to attract users without requiring them to sign up for an account.

Guests can see the phone number of the person who invited them, but the inviter has the ability to block guests if the link is accessed by an unauthorized stranger. However, it is important to note that the feature does not support group chats, media sharing, voice or video calls, and chats expire after 10 days of inactivity.

Once the chat starts, WhatsApp adds a ‘(Guest)’ label to their name and includes a disclaimer stating ‘Not registered with WhatsApp.’ The feature is currently available to a limited number of beta testers on iOS, Android, and the web, with no timeline for a wider rollout.

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging services with billions of monthly users, and this new guest chat feature could potentially expand its user base further. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for a broader release of this feature.