WhatsApp is developing a new guest calling feature that will let people without a WhatsApp account join voice and video calls through secure web links, eliminating the need to download the app or create an account. This move is expected to lower the barrier for participation and expand the platform’s reach.
How Guest Calls Will Work
According to feature tracker WaBetaInfo, the Meta-owned messaging platform is working on an upgrade to its existing call-link system. Users will be able to generate a call link from the Calls tab and share it with anyone. Recipients will open the link in a web browser and, instead of being redirected to an app download or registration page, will be able to join the call as a guest directly through WhatsApp Web.
The feature is still under development and not yet available for beta testing, WaBetaInfo noted.
Control and Security Measures
WhatsApp plans to include safeguards to give hosts control over guest participation. Before a guest can enter a call, the host must approve their request. This approval requirement applies to every participant joining without a WhatsApp account. Additionally, hosts can remove guests from an active call if necessary, preventing unwanted participants from joining via forwarded or widely shared links.
This development aligns with WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance its calling functionality while maintaining security and user control.
