WhatsApp opens its calls to people without an account

WhatsApp is rolling out guest calling, which lets an account holder send a voice or video call link to someone who neither uses WhatsApp nor has the app installed. The invitee opens the link in a browser, enters a name, and waits for the host to approve entry; they are joining that call as a guest, not gaining a WhatsApp account. That distinction keeps the host in control: guests can be removed and cannot view other participants’ phone numbers, send messages, or invite others. The change removes the usual “everyone needs the same app” hurdle, making WhatsApp calls more practical for an outside client, classmate, or relative—and moves the service closer to a general-purpose meeting tool while preserving some of its privacy boundaries.