WhatsApp has introduced its Guest Calling feature, allowing people without a WhatsApp account to join voice and video calls through a shared link.
Launched by WhatsApp, owned by Meta, on 15th October 2026, the new addition aims to make online meetings, group discussions, tutoring sessions, and personal chats more convenient. Users may sign in via their computer browser without making an account or downloading the WhatsApp application.
The new feature lets WhatsApp users invite others outside the app while still ensuring that only those they choose are part of a WhatsApp conversation. Guest calls are free, end-to-end encrypted and have no time limits, according to WhatsApp’s official announcement.
Up to 32 people are allowed for group calls. The company has also revealed that it will offer Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook integration later this year, making call scheduling easier.
Guest Calling lets an existing user generate a call link and share it with other people. The link can be opened in a web browser on the recipient’s computer, with the required entry information being the name and a request for access to the call. They don’t have to register on WhatsApp or download the app to join.
However, only WhatsApp account holders can create call links. All guests must remain in a virtual waiting room until the host grants access to their requests. The host may also terminate a participant at any time, without losing control of the conversation.
WhatsApp says guests can use several calling features, including computer screen sharing, thumbs-up and heart emoji reactions, and the option to raise their hands to indicate that they want to speak.
To be a part of a voice or video call as a guest user, follow these steps:
There’s no need for guests to register for a new account or download WhatsApp to use this feature. To create the invitation, the host needs to have a WhatsApp account.
There are a few restrictions with guest access. Participants cannot see other participants’ cell phone numbers, send messages, or directly invite more people to the call. The host controls who joins and stays in the conversation.
The feature can be used for one-to-one calls or group calls with up to 32 participants. Guest calling is end-to-end encrypted, which can help protect conversations, adds.
Later in 2026, WhatsApp will also be adding integrations with Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook. Users can generate WhatsApp call links directly in their calendars and add them as event invitations, the company says.
The integration requires users to install the plugin and link their account. Invitees can join the calls scheduled via the shared link, even if they don’t have a WhatsApp account.
The updates include enhancements to WhatsApp’s calling feature that improve the ability to connect with colleagues, students, friends and family across platforms.
