# WhatsApp guest calling feature rollout

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/whatsapp-guest-calling-feature-rollout
> Updated: 2026-10-26T12:04:09.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 3.

Meta has introduced ‘Guest Calling’ to WhatsApp, a feature that allows individuals without a WhatsApp account to join audio and video calls via a web browser. To participate, a host with an active account generates a call link and distributes it through channels such as email or calendar invites.

Participants without accounts can join by entering their name in a browser and waiting in a virtual lobby until the host admits them. The feature supports both one-on-one and group calls for up to 32 participants. While guests can utilize functions such as screen sharing, emoji reactions, and hand-raising, they are restricted from starting calls, sending text messages, adding new participants, or viewing the phone numbers of other callers.

All calls remain end-to-end encrypted and do not have a set time limit. This update is intended to position WhatsApp more closely to videoconferencing platforms like Google Meet and Microsoft Teams. Meta also intends to integrate these calls with Google and Outlook calendars in the future.

In addition to the guest calling functionality, WhatsApp has introduced a native voice message transcription feature. This allows users to convert audio messages into text directly on their devices. The transcription process is handled locally to maintain privacy, and users can enable it within the Chats menu under Settings. Currently, the service supports English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Russian.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-26: WhatsApp introduces voice message transcription and link-based calling

WhatsApp has launched native voice message transcription for several languages and a new calling feature that allows up to 32 guests without accounts to join via browser links.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-introduces-voice-message-transcription-and-link-based-calling

### 2026-10-26: WhatsApp enables call access for users without accounts

WhatsApp now allows users without an account to join audio and video calls via a web browser link, supporting up to 32 participants with end-to-end encryption.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-enables-call-access-for-users-without-accounts

### 2026-10-17: WhatsApp introduces guest calling for users without accounts

WhatsApp’s new ‘Guest Calling’ feature allows people without accounts to join calls via a browser link, supporting up to 32 participants with end-to-end encryption and no time limits.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-introduces-guest-calls-for-non-users

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Cite as: WhatsApp guest calling feature rollout. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/whatsapp-guest-calling-feature-rollout