WhatsApp Developing 'Guest Calls' Feature for Non-Users
Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp is developing a new feature called 'guest calls' that will allow individuals without a WhatsApp account to join voice or video calls. Reported by WABetaInfo, the feature aims to bring non-users into calls via a browser link.
What Happened
According to reports from WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is working on functionality that could soon compete directly with traditional video conferencing tools like Zoom and Google Meet. The upcoming 'guest calls' feature is designed to let people join voice or video calls even if they do not have a registered account with the chat application.
To utilize this upcoming feature for creating a call link, a user navigates to the Calls tab, generates a call link, selects either voice or video, and then shares the link or adds it directly to a calendar. When a non-account holder attempts to join via a browser session, the host must approve them before they are permitted to enter the call.
Key Details
- Feature Name: Guest calls
- Functionality: Allows non-account holders to join voice or video calls via a browser link without needing to download the app or access the web browser.
- Security: Operates with end-to-end encryption, generating a unique encryption key from the guest's browser session.
- Host Controls: Anyone joining without a WhatsApp account requires approval from the host before gaining entry.
- Creation Process: Users open the Calls tab, create a call link, select voice or video, and share or add it to a calendar.
Why It Matters
By allowing individuals to join conversations without installing the app or registering for an account, WhatsApp is expanding its utility for broader group communications. The incorporation of end-to-end encryption for browser sessions aims to maintain platform security standards for participants outside the ecosystem.
What We Know So Far
Confirmed facts include the operational mechanics of creating call links and host approval requirements. Unconfirmed details, based on reports from WABetaInfo, indicate that the feature is currently in development for iPhone users, has not yet been switched on for beta testers, and lacks a confirmed public release date. Additionally, WABetaInfo noted that the platform tested guest chats earlier this year for text conversations.
Background
WhatsApp recently introduced updates that make it easier to initiate calls directly from WhatsApp Web on browsers including Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Safari, eliminating the requirement to download a separate desktop application.
