WhatsApp is the most popular messaging platforms in the world. While Americans with iPhones usually prefer iMessage over third-party solutions — and the appeal is understandable as Apple is adds some features in iOS 26 to compete with these apps – Meta is making the perfect tool to have more people to try WhatsApp; or at least not have to download the app if someone wants to message them.
Expanding on the EU ruling that will force WhatsApp to offer interoperability with other messaging services, which requires developers to create a bridge between services, the company is also working on a simpler Guest Mode. This new feature will allow users without a WhatsApp number to communicate with a friend, family member, or business in a temporary chat.
That way, even if you don’t want to download WhatsApp, add a number, or register on Meta’s platform, you can at least communicate with people on WhatsApp. Below, you can learn more about how this functionality is actually going to work.
WhatsApp Guest Mode will make it easier to chat with others
As spotted by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp started working on this feature in build 2.25.22.13 for Android devices. While it’s still in development — which means beta testers can’t try it yet — the publication was able to get a first look at how this feature works.
According to the website, WhatsApp users will be able to reach non-users by sending them a link to Guest Chat through SMS, email, or a social media platform. At the moment, WhatsApp is solely focusing on texting capabilities, which means guests won’t be able to share media, GIFs, stickers, or send audio messages. Also, the platform isn’t offering voice or video calls for these chats.
That doesn’t mean WhatsApp won’t continue to improve the feature and add new functionality during the development or add more ways to communicate after the feature is released. While WhatsApp hasn’t revealed when it plans to launch the new Guest Chat feature, it’s possible that it will arrive later this year or at the beginning of 2026.
