WhatsApp Launches Guest Calling to Compete with Zoom and Meet
New feature allows non-users to join calls via links without app installation.
1New Guest Access Mechanism
WhatsApp has officially introduced guest calling, enabling users to invite individuals without accounts to join voice or video sessions. This functionality applies to both one-on-one interactions and group calls containing up to 32 participants. The update removes the previous requirement for all participants to maintain an active account on the platform.
2Host Control and Security
To maintain security, guests must be approved by the host before entering the call. Participants are placed in a waiting room until admitted, and hosts retain the authority to remove guests at any time. Furthermore, guests cannot view other participants' phone numbers, send messages, or invite additional people to the session.
3Feature Parity for Guests
Despite not having an account, guests can utilize essential interactive tools during their calls. Supported features include screen sharing, hand-raising, and emoji-based reactions. These participants can join directly through a computer browser, eliminating the need to download or install the WhatsApp application, which streamlines the onboarding process for professional or educational meetings.
4Operational Workflow Integration
Users can initiate these sessions by navigating to the Calls tab and selecting the plus icon to create a unique call link. This link can be shared with colleagues, classmates, or tutors. This workflow allows for seamless communication across different user bases, regardless of the specific applications installed on the recipients' personal devices.
5Evolution of Platform Strategy
This launch follows earlier testing of text-based conversations for non-users conducted earlier this year. While those initial tests enabled end-to-end encrypted messaging, they lacked support for voice or video functionality. The current rollout represents a significant expansion of that strategy, effectively bridging the gap between registered users and external communication partners.
6Upcoming Calendar Integrations
WhatsApp is currently developing integrations with Google Calendar and Outlook to further enhance usability. These upcoming features will allow users to generate call links directly within their calendar events. The implementation will require a specific plugin and is scheduled for release later this year, targeting improved scheduling efficiency for business and academic users.
7Competitive Market Positioning
By enabling browser-based guest access, WhatsApp is positioning itself as a direct competitor to established video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Google Meet. This move targets the professional and educational sectors, where frictionless joining experiences are critical for adoption. The platform is leveraging its massive existing user base to challenge dedicated conferencing tools.
8Strategic Implications of Access
The removal of account barriers signifies a shift toward becoming a more versatile communication utility rather than just a closed messaging network. By prioritizing ease of access for non-users, WhatsApp aims to capture a larger share of the professional meeting market, potentially reducing reliance on specialized video conferencing software for casual or semi-formal business interactions.
Original article: 9to5Mac — WhatsApp Launches Guest Calling to Compete with Zoom and Meet