Encouraging interaction for non-WhatsApp users. Introduced: a new feature for potentially attracting conversation outside its user base.
In a recent update (version 2.25.22.13) through the Google Play Beta program, WhatsApp has launched a new feature called "Guest Chats." This innovative feature allows users to communicate with individuals who don't have a WhatsApp account, setting it apart from third-party chat services.
The "Guest Chats" feature operates entirely within WhatsApp's own ecosystem, providing a secure, streamlined way to communicate with non-users. Unlike third-party services that might rely on external developers or integrations, WhatsApp maintains full control over the user experience, privacy, encryption, and performance reliability.
One of the key differences is that non-WhatsApp users can join a chat via an invitation link that opens a temporary chat interface directly in their web browser, without installing the app or creating a WhatsApp account. This feature ensures that the privacy protections found in regular WhatsApp chats, such as end-to-end encryption, are maintained even in guest chats.
However, it's important to note that Guest Chats support only text messaging without media files (photos, videos, GIFs), voice or video messages, or calls. Group chats are also not supported, differentiating it from many third-party platforms which may offer fuller feature sets.
Moreover, because guest chats are native to WhatsApp, users benefit from a consistent interface and reliable operation, whereas third-party chat services depend on external integration and may vary in quality or security.
In an earlier WhatsApp beta update (version 2.24.6.2), it was revealed that WhatsApp is working on a feature that will allow users to determine how they communicate with other messaging services. With this feature, users can set which external apps can exchange messages with WhatsApp or completely turn off the connection to other services.
In her article, Alexandra Ilina, an editor at VDI Verlag who specializes in careers and technology, discusses various topics, including WhatsApp, project management tools, cryptocurrency, messaging apps, image editing, city rankings, and trade fairs. She also recommends reading about the 11 best project management tools, the environmental impact of Bitcoin, lesser-known WhatsApp tricks, alternatives to Photoshop and Lightroom, the largest cities in the world, and a special on the Hannover Messe trade fair.
[1] WhatsApp Business API documentation: https://developers.facebook.com/docs/whatsapp/cloud-api/guest-accounts/ [2] WhatsApp Guest Accounts: What They Are and How They Work: https://www.techjury.net/blog/whatsapp-guest-accounts/ [3] WhatsApp introduces Guest Accounts for businesses: https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/28/22257617/whatsapp-guest-accounts-launch-businesses-api [4] WhatsApp Business API: Guest Accounts: https://www.twilio.com/blog/whatsapp-business-api-guest-accounts [5] WhatsApp Business API: Guest Accounts: https://www.mobilesquared.com/blog/whatsapp-guest-accounts-business-api/
- The "Guest Chats" feature in WhatsApp offers a unique approach to communication by enabling individuals outside of the platform to join conversations, thereby bridging the gap between different lifestyles and promoting technology use for those without WhatsApp accounts.
- In the realm of project management, Alexandra Ilina, a technology specialist at VDI Verlag, emphasizes the importance of exploring various tools and understands the role of technology in shaping lifestyles, as evidenced by her coverage of WhatsApp and other related topics.
