WhatsApp Events: Invite Friends Who Don't Have WhatsApp
Planning a wedding or end-of-year hangout? WhatsApp Events just got a big upgrade. You can now send an event invite to anyone, even people who don't have WhatsApp, and they can RSVP without downloading the app. WhatsApp is also adding a new Events Home to manage all your events in one place.
What WhatsApp announced
In a blog post on November 5, 2026, WhatsApp said it is rolling out these updates to everyone over the coming weeks:
- Invite people who aren't on WhatsApp: create an event, add a cover photo and share the link. Guests can see the details and RSVP from their browser.
- New Events Home: one place to create and send customised invites and manage RSVPs.
- Custom reminders so everyone remembers the date.
- Plus-ones: guests can add a plus one when they RSVP.
- All your events in one list: go to Settings > Events to see past and upcoming events you created or were invited to.
Is it safe? What guests can see
WhatsApp says the invites were built with privacy in mind:
- Your phone number is not shown to guests you don't know.
- Guests without a WhatsApp account only see the event address after they RSVP.
- Your personal messages and calls stay end-to-end encrypted.
How to create a WhatsApp event and share the link
Once the update reaches your phone:
- Update WhatsApp from the Play Store or App Store.
- Go to Settings > Events to open Events Home (you can also create an event inside a group chat).
- Add the event name, date, time and location, and pick a cover photo.
- Share the invite link on WhatsApp, SMS, Instagram, email or anywhere else.
- Check who's coming from the RSVP list and set a reminder.
The rollout is gradual, so if you don't see the new options yet, check again in a few days.
What this means for you
Many of us still have that one uncle, aunty or colleague who isn't on WhatsApp, or friends abroad who use other apps. Before now you'd have to send them a separate message. With a shareable link, one invite covers everyone and you get all the replies in one list. It's handy for owambe, weddings, alumni meetups and business events, and it's free.
WhatsApp has been busy this week. It also added Recent Media Suggestions and Smart Text Actions.
FAQs
Can people without WhatsApp RSVP to my event?
Yes. They open your invite link, see the event details and RSVP without downloading WhatsApp.
Will guests see my phone number?
No. WhatsApp says your number isn't shown to guests you don't know.
Where is Events Home on WhatsApp?
Go to Settings and tap Events.
Why don't I have the new Events features?
They are rolling out to everyone over the coming weeks. Keep WhatsApp updated.
What would you use WhatsApp Events for first? Tell us in the comments.
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