WhatsApp Guest Links Let Non-Users Join Calls — Up to 32 People, With Host Approval and a Waiting Room

WhatsApp has launched WhatsApp guest links, letting people who don't have a WhatsApp account join encrypted WhatsApp calls through a link sent by the host. It's a lower-friction way to bring someone onto a call and a clear move against Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

How guests join

According to WhatsApp, guests open the link in their computer browser, type in their name and, once admitted by the host, join 1:1 or group calls with up to 32 people. Only people with a WhatsApp account can create a call link.

What guests can't do

• Guests always need the host's approval and wait in a waiting room until admitted.
• Hosts can remove guests at any time.
• Guests can't see other participants' phone numbers.
• Guests can't send messages or add anyone else directly to the call.

Because one link works for every participant, setting up group calls becomes much simpler.

Calendar integration is next

WhatsApp is also preparing integrations so users can create a WhatsApp call from Google or Outlook calendars. With WhatsApp gaining traction in the U.S. among people looking for secure, private communication, the feature extends an app people already use for personal chats into work calls.

How businesses can use it

1. Customer consultations without an install. Brands serving WhatsApp-first markets can invite customers who aren't on the app, straight from the browser.
2. Easier B2B meetings. Contacts whose company policies block new apps can still join.
3. Use the waiting room as a queue. Admitting guests one at a time helps structure support or sales sessions.
4. Privacy by default. Since guests can't see phone numbers, small briefings and product demos are less risky to host.

For how B2B buyers behave before they ever talk to sales, see B2B Buyers Start Researching 124 Days Before Talking to Sales. For another change to Meta's business tooling, read Meta Drops Access Verification for Developers Using Client Business Data.