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WhatsApp has introduced a new guest calling feature that allows users to invite anyone to join a voice or video call, even if they do not have a WhatsApp account. The feature makes it easier to connect with colleagues, classmates, tutors, and friends without requiring everyone to install the app.
WhatsApp Introduces Guest Calling Without an Account or Time Limits
The company says guest calls are free and end-to-end encrypted. They also have no time limits, allowing participants to continue their conversations without worrying about calls ending unexpectedly.
How WhatsApp Guest Calling Works
To start a guest call, users need to open WhatsApp and go to the Calls tab. They can then tap the “+” icon, create a call link, and share it with the people they want to invite.
Recipients can open the link in their computer browser, enter their name, and wait for the host to let them into the call. They do not need a WhatsApp account to join. However, only existing WhatsApp users can create and share call links.
The feature supports both one-to-one and group calls with up to 32 participants. This makes it useful for online meetings, study sessions, and other conversations involving multiple people.
See Also: WhatsApp Introduces New Security Alert for Android and iPhone Users
Privacy and Security Features
WhatsApp has included several restrictions to protect users’ privacy during guest calls. Every guest must receive approval from the host before entering a call. Guests remain in a waiting room until the host admits them.
Hosts can also remove guests from a call whenever necessary. Meanwhile, guest participants cannot see other participants’ phone numbers, send messages, or directly invite additional people to the call.
These restrictions give hosts greater control over who joins their conversations while helping protect participants’ personal information.
Screen Sharing and Other Call Features
Guest participants can access several essential calling features. They can share their computer screens to review documents, discuss presentations, or collaborate on other tasks.
Participants can also react with emojis, including thumbs-up and heart reactions, or raise their hands to indicate that they want to speak. These tools can make group discussions more convenient, particularly for remote work and online learning.
WhatsApp Plans Calendar Integration
WhatsApp also plans to introduce calendar integrations later this year. The upcoming feature will allow users to create WhatsApp call links directly from Google Calendar or Microsoft Outlook.
Users will be able to install the WhatsApp plugin, connect their accounts, and add call links to calendar invitations. Invitees will then be able to join calls whether or not they have a WhatsApp account.
The integration could simplify the process of arranging online meetings by allowing users to schedule calls and invite participants through their existing calendar applications.
A Step Towards More Accessible Calling
The guest calling feature is part of WhatsApp’s broader effort to improve its calling services. By allowing people without accounts to join calls, the company is making it easier for users to communicate across different platforms.
The combination of free calls, end-to-end encryption, browser-based access, and a 32-participant limit could make the feature useful for both personal and professional conversations. With calendar integration also on the way, WhatsApp aims to make joining a call more convenient for everyone.
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