WhatsApp Expands Guest Mode Beta to iOS and Web

WhatsApp has begun testing a new feature called Guest Mode, enabling users to engage in one-on-one chats without creating an account, with the beta now expanding beyond Android to include iOS and web platforms. The rollout, which started on Android last August, aims to lower barriers for non-users to try the service, particularly in regions where adoption lags.

To initiate a guest chat, an existing WhatsApp user navigates to the "Invite a friend" section within the app or at the bottom of their contacts list to generate a shareable link. This link can be sent via text message, email, or other apps. When the recipient opens it on a mobile device or desktop browser, it directs them to a browser-based version of WhatsApp Web. There, they accept the platform's terms, provide a display name, and begin messaging. The conversation launches a secure session with a unique identifier that generates an end-to-end encryption key, ensuring only the participants can access the content. WhatsApp itself cannot view the messages.

Guests receive clear indicators of their status: a "Guest" label appears next to their name in the chat, along with a disclaimer stating "Not registered with WhatsApp."...