WhatsApp has launched guest calling, announced on 14 October. It lets you invite people who don't have WhatsApp to join a voice or video call from a computer browser. For Indians who juggle WhatsApp with Google Meet and Zoom for work calls, this could replace another app.
How it works
- In WhatsApp, open the Calls tab and tap the + icon.
- Choose to create a call link and share it by SMS, email or any app.
- The guest opens the link in a browser on their computer, enters their name and waits in a waiting room.
- You approve each guest before they join, and can remove them at any time.
Only the person creating the link needs a WhatsApp account.
What guests can and can't do
- Guests can share their screen, react with a thumbs-up or heart, and raise their hand.
- Guests can't see other participants' phone numbers, send messages, or add people.
- Calls can have up to 32 participants, with no time limit.
Meta says guest calls are end-to-end encrypted and free.
Why this is useful in India
- Small businesses and freelancers can take client calls without asking them to install anything.
- Families abroad with relatives who prefer email can join from a laptop.
- Privacy: guests don't see your number, which is better than sharing it to start a regular call.
Meta also says Google Calendar and Outlook integrations are coming later this year, so you'll be able to add WhatsApp call links to meeting invites.
A note on safety
Scammers love links. Only join WhatsApp call links from people you know, and if someone you don't know sends a call link claiming to be a bank, police or courier, ignore it.
Sources: Meta Newsroom
Also read: News Publishers Challenge India's Data Protection Law in Supreme Court: What DPDP Means for You
