Webex App | Start a Conference Call

Webex App | Start a Conference Call

Overview

When you're on a phone call in the Webex App, you can pull someone else into the conversation without having to schedule a meeting. This creates an ad-hoc conference call where all parties can speak together.

This works whether you're using the Webex App on its own or paired with a Cisco desk phone (including the 9800 series).

Source: Webex App | Start a conference call — Cisco

Before You Begin

You must be set up with one of these calling services:

  • Webex Calling
  • Unified CM
  • Service Provider-hosted calling

Not sure which you have? Contact your administrator or check Settings > Calling in the Webex App.

Maximum Participants

Calling Service Max Participants
Webex Calling6 participants
Unified CMSet by administrator
Service Provider3–15 (varies by provider)

Start a Conference — Desktop (Windows / Mac)

  1. During an active call, click More More options, then select Conference Conference.
  2. The first caller is placed on hold — let them know before you do this.
  3. Enter a phone number or search for a contact by name.
  4. Select Audio Audio call or Video Video call call.
  5. Once the second party answers, click the Merge calls button Merge calls to combine everyone into a conference.

Conference call in Webex App

Tip: After merging, click the Participant Panel icon Participant panel to see everyone on the call. You can add more people by repeating the process — click More > Conference again.

Start a Conference — Mobile (iOS / Android)

  1. During an active call, tap More, then tap Conference.
  2. The current caller is placed on hold.
  3. Enter a number or search for a contact, then choose Audio or Video.
  4. When the second party answers, tap Merge calls.
  5. Tap the Participant Panel icon to view and manage participants.

Using with a Cisco Desk Phone

If your Webex App is paired with a desk phone (Settings > Calling > Desk phone), conference management works the same way:

  • The desk phone handles audio (handset or speaker)
  • The Webex App handles call controls (conference, merge, participant list)
  • This is the recommended way to manage conference calls on 9800 series phones (9861, etc.) since the native participant list is not available on these models

Good to Know

  • When only 2 participants remain after someone leaves, the call automatically reverts to a one-to-one call.
  • You can also select Invite and Meet to convert the call into a full Webex Meeting (requires a Meetings license).
  • Call transfer and call park become available when the conference drops to two people.

Source: Webex App | Start a conference call by Cisco. Adapted for Perdigon Group customers. Last updated March 28, 2026.

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