WhatsApp Rolls Out Feature Allowing Non-Users to Join Calls
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
WhatsApp has introduced a new feature allowing people without a WhatsApp account to join voice and video calls using a web browser. The calls remain free, encrypted, and unlimited in duration. This update aims to expand the service's accessibility for professional and business use. The feature is rolling out gradually worldwide, with availability in Israel expected in the coming weeks.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- WhatsApp now allows non-users to join voice and video calls via a web browser.
- Call participants without a WhatsApp account can join using a generated link.
- The new feature supports up to 32 participants in group calls.
- Guests have limited functionality, focusing on call participation, not messaging.
- Meta plans calendar integrations for easier meeting invitations.
- The feature is rolling out gradually globally and in Israel over the next few weeks.
Meta has launched a significant update to its WhatsApp application, enabling users to invite individuals who do not have a WhatsApp account to join voice and video calls. This new functionality maintains the existing benefits of free, end-to-end encrypted calls with no time limits. It marks the first time non-registered users can participate in WhatsApp calls.
To initiate a call with external participants, a registered user creates a unique link via the calls tab in the app. This link can then be shared with intended recipients, who can join the conversation through a web browser on their computer without needing to download the WhatsApp application. Upon joining, guests will be prompted to enter their name and will wait in a virtual lobby. The call host must manually approve each incoming participant and retains the ability to remove anyone from the call at any time. The feature supports both one-on-one and group calls with up to 32 participants.
Regarding privacy, guests are not exposed to other participants' phone numbers and cannot send text messages or invite additional people. However, they can utilize features such as screen sharing, sending emojis, and using a 'raise hand' function. Meta also announced plans to integrate with external calendar services like Google Calendar and Outlook. A future add-on will allow the creation of WhatsApp call links directly from meeting invitations, distributing them to all attendees regardless of whether they have a WhatsApp account.
This update is part of a broader effort by Meta to enhance WhatsApp's accessibility for professional and business use. The rollout of the guest calling feature has begun globally in a phased manner, varying by region, device type, and operating system version. In Israel, the feature is expected to become gradually available to both Android and iOS users over the coming weeks. Users are advised to ensure their app is updated to the latest version to check for availability.