WhatsApp is making it easier for people to connect by allowing users without a WhatsApp account to join calls through an invitation link, according to the reported feature update. The change could make it more convenient for friends, family members, and colleagues to join conversations without first signing up for the messaging platform.
How WhatsApp Guest Calling Works
The new feature, called guest calling, allows WhatsApp users to invite people who do not have an account to join voice or video calls. The host creates a call link from WhatsApp’s Calls tab and shares it with friends, family members, or colleagues.
No Account or App Download Required
Guests can open the invitation link in a computer browser, enter their name, and request to join the call. They do not need to create a WhatsApp account or install the app to participate. However, only existing WhatsApp users can create call links.
Host Approval Keeps Calls Under Control
WhatsApp requires the host to approve every guest before they can enter a call. Guests remain in a waiting room until they are admitted, and the host can remove participants at any time. This gives the person who created the call control over who joins.
Free Calls With End-to-End Encryption
WhatsApp says guest calls are free, end-to-end encrypted, and have no time limits. The feature supports one-to-one conversations and group calls with up to 32 participants, making it useful for both personal chats and online meetings.
Guests Can Share Screens and Use Reactions
Participants joining as guests can use several in-call features, including screen sharing, emoji reactions, and the option to raise a hand. These tools can help people collaborate on projects, discuss documents, or take part in group conversations without registering for the service.
Privacy Restrictions for Guest Participants
Although guests can participate in calls, they cannot see other participants’ phone numbers, send WhatsApp messages, or add other people directly to the call. These restrictions help maintain privacy while allowing people outside the platform to communicate with WhatsApp users.
WhatsApp Plans Calendar Integrations
The company also announced plans to introduce Google Calendar and Outlook integrations later in 2026. These integrations are intended to let users create WhatsApp call links from their calendars and include them in invitations, making it easier to organize meetings.
A Step Toward More Accessible Online Calling
The guest calling feature makes WhatsApp more accessible to people who use other messaging platforms or prefer not to create another account. By combining browser-based access with encrypted calls and host approval, WhatsApp is expanding its calling options for everyday conversations and group meetings.
