Overview
- WhatsApp announced the feature on Oct. 14, 2026, and has begun a gradual rollout that lets people join voice and video calls without creating an account.
- Only account holders can create a call link while invitees open the link in a computer browser, enter a name, and wait in a virtual waiting room for host approval.
- Calls remain end‑to‑end encrypted, free, and unlimited in length, and can include up to 32 participants with in‑call tools such as screen sharing, emoji reactions, and hand‑raising.
- Guests cannot see other participants’ phone numbers, send messages, or add people and hosts retain controls to admit or remove guests at any time.
- WhatsApp says calendar integrations for Google Calendar and Outlook will arrive later this year via a plugin, a move that narrows feature gaps with link‑based calling from rivals like FaceTime and meeting apps.