Meta has begun rolling out invite-link calls that let people join WhatsApp conversations from a computer browser without installing the app or creating an account, with encryption and unlimited call time intact.
Meta has started rolling out guest calling on WhatsApp, a feature that allows people without the messaging app to join calls through a simple invite link. Guests need no download and no account.
Those who join this way get much of the same experience as regular users. Calls are free, protected by end-to-end encryption and carry no time limit, so conversations will not be cut short. Guests can also share their computer screen, respond with a thumbs-up or heart emoji, and raise a hand to ask to speak.
Two limits to note
The feature comes with two conditions. A call can only be started, and its link created, by someone who has a WhatsApp account. Guests, meanwhile, must open the link in a browser on a computer, as mobile browsers are not yet supported.
For hosts, setup is quick. They open the Calls tab, tap the “+” icon, generate a call link and send it to those they want to invite. This can be done from the phone app or through WhatsApp Web. Guests enter their name to join, and both one-on-one and group calls of up to 32 people are supported.
Controls for hosts, restrictions for guests
Guests cannot enter a call unannounced. They are placed in a waiting room until the host lets them in, and the host can remove them at any point. Their access is also limited: guests cannot view other participants’ phone numbers, send messages or bring additional people into the call.
Guest calling builds on web calling, which WhatsApp introduced in July. That update also added noise suppression and the ability to shift an ongoing call between a phone and a desktop computer.
Calendar tools on the way
Meta says further integration is coming. Later this year, users will be able to install a WhatsApp plugin for Google Calendar or Outlook, link their account and attach a call link directly to meeting invitations. Everyone on the invite will be able to join, whether or not they use WhatsApp.
The change signals an effort to make WhatsApp calling more useful for work-style meetings and mixed groups, where not every participant uses the same platform. By removing the sign-up barrier while keeping security and host controls in place, Meta is positioning the service as a more flexible alternative to dedicated video-conferencing tools.
