WhatsApp Now Lets Anyone Join Calls, No Account Needed

WhatsApp, the popular Meta chat application, has introduced a new feature allowing users to join voice or video calls without needing a WhatsApp account. This guest calling feature enables anyone to join a call, even if they lack a WhatsApp account, and provides free, end-to-end encrypted calls with no time limits. Up to 32 people can join a single call.

Inviting guests to a call requires the host's permission, and guests enter a waiting room until the host allows them in. Guests cannot see participants' phone numbers, send messages, or add others to the call. However, hosts have full control over the call and can remove guests at any time. Guests can still enjoy screen sharing, thumbs up and heart emoji reactions, and use a raised hand to ask questions.

To initiate a guest call, WhatsApp users simply navigate to the Calls tab, tap the "+" button to create a call link, and then share this link with anyone. This call link can also be joined via a computer browser. WhatsApp plans to roll out calendar integrations later this year, allowing users to create a WhatsApp call directly from Google or Outlook calendars.

With the ability to join calls via a browser, WhatsApp has matched a feature previously offered by Apple for FaceTime in iOS 15. The feature demonstrates WhatsApp's commitment to making communication accessible to all, regardless of whether the recipient has a WhatsApp account.