WhatsApp has introduced a new guest calling feature that allows people without a WhatsApp account to join voice and video calls through invitation links, bringing the messaging platform closer to services such as Apple’s FaceTime, Zoom and Google Meet.
Announced on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, the feature allows existing WhatsApp users to invite friends, family members, colleagues and other contacts to calls without requiring them to download the application or create an account.
According to Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, guest calls are free, protected by end-to-end encryption and have no time limits. The feature supports one-on-one conversations and group calls involving up to 32 participants.
The update could make it easier for users to organise virtual meetings, family conversations, online classes and other discussions involving people who do not regularly use WhatsApp.
How WhatsApp Guest Calling Works
To start a guest call, an existing WhatsApp user needs to open the Calls tab, tap the plus (+) icon and create a new call link.
The link can then be shared with the intended participants through a preferred communication channel.
People who do not have WhatsApp can open the invitation link in a compatible web browser on their computer, enter their name and request to join the call.
However, guests cannot initiate calls independently. A WhatsApp account holder must create the link, and the host must approve guests before they can enter the conversation.
Participants are placed in a waiting room until approved, while the host retains the ability to remove them from the call whenever necessary.
Privacy and Calling Features
WhatsApp says guest participants can use several features during calls, including screen sharing, emoji reactions and the option to raise their hands when they want to speak.
The company has also introduced restrictions designed to protect users’ privacy and maintain control over conversations.
Guests cannot view other participants’ phone numbers, send WhatsApp messages or invite additional people directly into the call.
The end-to-end encryption protection is intended to ensure that conversations remain private to the participants rather than being accessible to outsiders.
WhatsApp Plans Calendar Integration
Beyond guest calling, Meta says it plans to introduce integrations with Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook later in 2026.
The planned integration will allow users to create WhatsApp call links directly through their calendars and include them in event invitations.
Recipients will be able to join through the shared links, even if they do not have WhatsApp accounts.
The development follows other calling improvements introduced earlier in 2026, including support for voice and video calls directly through WhatsApp Web.
By removing the requirement for every participant to have an account, WhatsApp is expanding its role beyond messaging and bringing its calling service closer to established online meeting platforms.
For users, the practical benefit is straightforward: they can invite more people to a call without asking everyone to install the same application first.