You can now invite anyone to join a WhatsApp call, whether they have an account or not

In a move that significantly expands accessibility, Meta has announced the launch of WhatsApp guest calling, allowing users to invite anyone to participate in WhatsApp voice and video calls regardless of whether they have a WhatsApp account. The feature addresses a long-standing limitation where all participants needed the app installed to join conversations. According to Meta's official statement, users can now create call links through the calls' tab and share them with colleagues, classmates, or tutors who can then join via their computer browser simply by entering their name. The service maintains WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption, with no time limits imposed on calls, eliminating the disruptions of dropped connections or forced restarts.

Privacy safeguards remain central to the new system, with guests requiring explicit host approval before entering any call; a waiting room mechanism ensures hosts retain control over participant access. While guests gain core in-call capabilities including screen sharing, emoji reactions, and the ability to raise their hands to speak, they face deliberate restrictions: they cannot view other participants' phone numbers, send messages, or invite additional people directly. Only existing WhatsApp account holders retain the ability to generate call links. Group calls accommodate up to 32 participants, positioning WhatsApp as a competitor in the professional and educational communication space traditionally dominated by platforms like Zoom and Google Meet.

Looking ahead, Meta plans to integrate calendar functionality later this year, enabling users to schedule WhatsApp calls directly through Google or Outlook calendars via a dedicated plugin. This announcement builds on a series of calling enhancements WhatsApp has introduced throughout 2026, including web calling features unveiled in July. The development signals Meta's broader strategy to position WhatsApp as a universal communication platform that works across institutional and personal boundaries without fragmenting users across incompatible applications.