WhatsApp may let anyone join calls via web link without an account

The reported feature could remove a key barrier to WhatsApp-based communication, giving businesses a simpler way to connect with customers and external participants while retaining host approval controls and end-to-end encryption.

WhatsApp is exploring a new calling feature that could allow people without a WhatsApp account to participate in voice and video calls using a simple web link. The development, as per reports, could make WhatsApp calls more accessible by eliminating the need to download the application or register an account before joining.

The proposed functionality appears to build on WhatsApp’s existing guest chat approach, which enables people who are not WhatsApp users to participate in text conversations through shared links. The company could extend the same concept to real-time communication, allowing hosts to invite external participants to calls.

Browser-based access for guests

Under the reported system, a WhatsApp user would be able to generate a call invitation from the Calls section and select the appropriate call type. The resulting link could then be distributed through messaging platforms, email or other communication channels.

Recipients would open the invitation through a web browser and access the call interface through WhatsApp Web. This would mean they would not necessarily need to install the WhatsApp application or create an account to participate.

Security controls are also expected to remain part of the experience. A guest would not automatically enter a call simply by possessing the invitation link. Instead, the host would reportedly have to approve participants before they can join. During a live session, the host could manage participants, including adding or removing people, or terminate the call for everyone.

The calls are expected to retain WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption. Reports indicate that individual guest sessions could receive unique identifiers that would be involved in generating the encryption key for the conversation.

Potential boost for business communication

Currently, WhatsApp calling generally requires participants to have both the application and an account. A browser-based guest option could remove that restriction and make the platform more useful for organisations communicating with customers, partners or other external users.

The proposed model would also bring WhatsApp closer to the joining experience offered by services such as Zoom and Google Meet, where participants can often enter meetings through an invitation link.

However, the feature remains under development and has not yet been made available to beta testers. WhatsApp has also not announced a launch schedule. Until the company confirms the functionality, details surrounding its availability and final implementation may change.