WhatsApp guest calls let people join a call from a computer browser without creating a WhatsApp account. The host still needs an account, creates the link in WhatsApp and admits each guest from a waiting room. Calls are free, end-to-end encrypted and have no time limit.
WhatsApp announced the feature on October 14, 2026. A call can include up to 32 people. Guests can share their computer screen, react with a thumbs up or heart, and raise a hand, but they cannot send messages, see participants’ phone numbers or invite someone else.
How to invite someone to a WhatsApp call
You create the link from your WhatsApp account. The person joining does not need one:
- Open WhatsApp and select the Calls tab.
- Tap the + icon and choose the option to create a call link.
- Send the link to your guests.
- Each guest opens it in a browser on a computer and enters a name.
- Admit the people you recognise from the waiting room.
WhatsApp describes guest access through a computer browser. It has not said that people without accounts can join this way from a phone browser, so don’t count on that setup yet.
What guests can and cannot do
| Guests can | Guests cannot |
|---|---|
| Join a one-to-one or group call after the host admits them | Create a call link |
| Share their computer screen | Send WhatsApp messages |
| React or raise a hand | See participants’ phone numbers |
| Join a call with up to 32 people | Invite other people directly |
The host remains in control
A call link is an invitation, not automatic entry. Every guest waits for approval, and the host can remove someone during the call. The waiting room is useful, but it is not identity verification: guests choose the name shown there, and a link can be forwarded. Admit only people you expect.
This is handy when a client, classmate or relative does not use WhatsApp but can join from a laptop. It does not remove the account requirement for the person organising the call. If nobody in the group has WhatsApp, someone will still need to host it.
Calendar links are coming later
WhatsApp says Google Calendar and Outlook integrations are planned for later this year. They will let people add a WhatsApp call link to a calendar invitation. For now, create the link from the Calls tab and share it yourself.
