WhatsApp is opening its audio and video calls to people who do not have the app or a WhatsApp account. Its new guest calling feature lets invitees join through a shared link in a computer browser, while the call organiser remains a registered WhatsApp user.
WhatsApp says guest calls are free, have no time limit and use the same end-to-end encrypted calling infrastructure as its regular calls. The feature supports one-to-one conversations and group calls with up to 32 participants.
Guests join from a browser
A WhatsApp user creates a call link from the Calls tab by selecting the “+” icon, then shares it with the intended participants. A guest opens the link on a computer, enters a name and waits for the host to approve the request. Only people with a WhatsApp account can create these links.
Browser-based guests can share their screen, react with emojis and raise a hand during a call. WhatsApp’s announcement specifically describes joining from a computer browser; it does not say that account-free participation is available from mobile browsers.
Waiting room and privacy controls
Guest participants enter a waiting room before they can join. The host decides who is admitted and can remove a guest at any time.
WhatsApp also says guests cannot see other participants’ phone numbers, send messages or directly add other people to the call. These restrictions keep guest access focused on the live conversation rather than providing broader access to WhatsApp’s messaging features.
The company states that guest calls use its existing end-to-end encrypted calling infrastructure. That is a platform claim from WhatsApp; TTR has not independently audited or tested the implementation.
Calendar integrations are planned for 2026
WhatsApp plans to add Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook integrations later in 2026. Users will be able to install a WhatsApp plugin, connect their account and place a WhatsApp call link directly in a calendar invitation. Invitees will then be able to join with or without a WhatsApp account.
The forthcoming integrations could make WhatsApp call links more practical for scheduled meetings, classes and other group conversations. WhatsApp has not provided a more specific release date in its announcement.
Availability and requirements
Guest calling requires the organiser to have WhatsApp and create the call link. Account-free guests join from a supported computer browser and must be admitted by the host. WhatsApp says calls can include up to 32 people and do not have a time limit.
Further details are available in WhatsApp’s official guest-calling announcement.
Source: WhatsApp media announcement dated 15 October 2026. Feature, capacity, encryption and availability statements are provided by WhatsApp; TTR has not tested guest calling.
