WhatsApp now lets you chat with unknown numbers without saving them first

WhatsApp chat with unknown numbers

The new feature has started rolling out, and should be available with the latest iOS and Android WhatsApp versions, according to WABetaInfo. The feature is quite self-explanatory but here's how it will work. When you search for an unknown number on WhatsApp, you're directed to save the number to start a new chat with them. This might not be the requirement all the time, and one that you would like to avoid. 

With the latest update you'll be able to chat with numbers not saved in your phone. You can do this by following these steps:

• Open WhatsApp on iOS or Android, and tap the "start new chat" button. 
• Enter the unknown number in the search bar, and WhatsApp will pull your contacts list to find it.
• What normally happens is WhatsApp doesn't find the contact, and you have to end up saving it.
• But with the new feature you'll get to start a chat with that particular number. 

WhatsApp hasn't officially announced yet so we can't say when the feature will be available to all users. For now, you can update WhatsApp to the latest version from the App Store or Google Play Store. Then you can try out the steps mentioned above to see if you have received the feature. Otherwise, it will most likely be a phased rollout so it should be available on your phone soon.