WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will allow users to start chats without having to sign up for an account. Introduced in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.25.22.13, the feature is currently under development and not yet live for testers, but it represents a major step in lowering the barrier to entry for new or temporary users.
The idea behind guest chats is to let people communicate on WhatsApp instantly without registering a phone number or linking the app to a permanent account. This could be useful in scenarios where someone needs to chat with a business, join a group conversation for a one-time event, or get support without committing to creating a profile. Once available, the app is expected to generate a temporary identity to enable this communication while still keeping it private and secure.
Although the details are limited for now, the feature was spotted within the app’s code by WABetaInfo, suggesting that development is actively underway. It is not yet clear how WhatsApp plans to handle encryption, message history, or abuse prevention for guest users, but given the platform’s existing focus on privacy, it is likely that guest chats will follow end-to-end encryption standards.
Meta may be introducing this feature to make WhatsApp more accessible in situations where account creation is a hurdle. Competitors like Telegram and Signal require phone numbers or usernames to chat, so offering guest access could make WhatsApp more flexible and appealing for occasional use cases or quick anonymous interactions.
The feature has not rolled out to public testers yet, and there is no confirmed timeline for launch. As with other features found in early beta versions, it may evolve or even be shelved before public release. Still, guest chats mark a significant change to how WhatsApp functions and could eventually allow people to use the service without fully joining the platform.
