Now it will be easy to include in audio and video calls on WhatsApp even those who do not have an account on this platform. Meta-owned WhatsApp on Wednesday announced a new guest calling feature. With this, users will be able to call even people who are not using WhatsApp by sharing a link. The special thing is that these calls will also have the facility of end-to-end encryption like normal WhatsApp calls.

According to the company, guest calls will be free and there will be no time limit for the conversation. With the help of this feature, group calls can be made along with one-to-one calls. A maximum of 32 people including guests can participate in the call.

How will WhatsApp’s guest calling feature work?

To initiate a guest call, a user with a WhatsApp account has to open the Calls tab in the app. After this, you have to create a call link by tapping on the ‘+’ icon. This link can be shared with those who need to join the call.

After receiving the link, guests can open it in their computer’s browser. After this they have to enter their name and send a request to join the call. However, the option to create a call link will be available only to those who have an account on WhatsApp.

The host is allowed to join the call.

WhatsApp has also set some rules regarding the entry of people participating in guest calls. After opening the link, guests will not be able to initiate a direct conversation. They have to wait in the waiting room first. They can participate only after getting the call host’s approval. If the host wants, he can also remove the guest from the call at any time.

Guest users cannot view other participants’ phone numbers, send messages, or add anyone else to a call on their behalf. With this, the host will control the call.

After joining the call, the guest will also get many other features. This includes sharing a computer screen, sending emojis like a thumbs-up or heart, and the option to raise your hand to speak. These features can be used during online classes, office meetings, collaboration and group discussions.

Call Links will also connect to Google Calendar and Outlook

WhatsApp said the company is also planning to introduce calendar integration by the end of this year. After this, users will be able to create call links directly from Google Calendar or Outlook by installing the relevant WhatsApp plugin and connecting their accounts.

People invited by a calendar event will also be able to join the call, even if they don’t have a WhatsApp account. With this, scheduling meetings and calling others can be easier than ever.

Calling features have been changed earlier as well

WhatsApp also introduced several updates related to calling in July. It included the ability to make audio and video calls right in the browser via WhatsApp Web. For this it is not necessary to download the desktop app separately on the computer.

Apart from this, the company has given an option to transfer an ongoing group call from one device to another without disconnecting it. A waiting room that asks for approval before joining a call, QuickHD for better video quality and a noise suppression feature to reduce ambient noise were also introduced.

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