Meta-owned WhatsApp is expanding its Events feature to let users invite people who do not have a WhatsApp account, while introducing a dedicated Events Home to create invitations, track responses and manage upcoming gatherings.

The update, according to a Meta announcement yesterday, will allow recipients to view event details and RSVP through a shared link without downloading the app, with the new features rolling out to all users over the coming weeks.

Users creating an event can add a cover photo and share an invitation link with guests through other channels. The move is aimed at making event planning more inclusive by allowing people outside the WhatsApp ecosystem to participate in meetups and gatherings.

The new Events Home will serve as a central hub for creating customised invitations and managing RSVPs.

Accessible through Settings under the Events section, it will provide a consolidated view of past and upcoming events, including those organised by users and invitations they have received.

The update also brings custom reminders and an option for guests to bring a plus-one, helping organisers coordinate attendance.

WhatsApp said the changes were designed to make planning easier and keep participants informed without having to navigate multiple group or individual chats.

The company added that privacy safeguards had been built into the invitation process.

A user’s phone number will not be visible to guests they do not know, while invitees without a WhatsApp account will be able to view the event address only after submitting their RSVP.

Personal messages and calls on the platform will continue to remain end-to-end encrypted.