WhatsApp has officially introduced a new feature called Guest Calling, enabling non-WhatsApp users to join voice and video calls via a link without creating an account.
Rolling out globally across Android, iOS, and WhatsApp Web, this feature positions WhatsApp as a direct competitor to video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams by offering free, time-unlimited group and one-on-one calls.
Key Features & Meeting Capabilities
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No Account Required: Anyone with a call link can join from a desktop or mobile web browser without signing up for WhatsApp.
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No Time Limits: Calls are entirely free and unlimited in duration, preventing abrupt meeting cutoffs.
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Large Group Capacity: Supports one-on-one calls as well as group video calls with up to 32 participants.
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Interactive Tools: Guest participants can raise their hands to speak, send emoji reactions, and share their screens for collaboration.
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Upcoming Calendar Integration: WhatsApp plans to roll out plugins for Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook later this year to streamline scheduling.
Privacy, Security, and Host Controls
WhatsApp has implemented several host-side controls and privacy protections for guest interactions:
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End-to-End Encryption: Guest calls maintain full end-to-end encryption.
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Waiting Room & Host Approval: Guests cannot jump directly into a call. They must wait in a virtual waiting room until the host approves their entry. Hosts can also remove guests at any point.
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Phone Number Protection: Guest participants cannot see the phone numbers of other participants in the call.
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Restricted Actions: Guests cannot send chat messages or add other participants directly to the call.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Create and Share a WhatsApp Guest Call Link
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Update WhatsApp: Ensure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed on your mobile device or desktop.
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Open Calls Tab: Navigate to the Calls tab on your device.
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Initiate Link Creation: Tap the + (Plus) icon at the top and select New Call Link.
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Select Call Type: Choose between a Voice or Video call.
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Enable Waiting Room: Toggle on Require Approval to Join to ensure guests must be let in manually by the host.
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Share the Link: Tap Copy Link, then select either Send Link via WhatsApp or Share Link to send it via email, SMS, or third-party messaging platforms.
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Schedule for Later (Optional): Tap Add to Calendar to add the call event directly to your digital calendar.
Note: Generated call links remain valid for up to 30 days before expiring if left unused.
