WhatsApp beta latest version for Android and iOS brings QR code support allowing users to add new contacts by scanning their QR codes.
As reported by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp for Android Beta v2.20.171 and version 2.20.60.27 for iPhone brings the support for QR codes for user profiles. A new feature is available under the Profile settings.
Currently, you need to save a number in the contact list of the device to message them on WhatsApp. This creates an extra step of adding the contact number to the device and may be painful if you are in a hurry.
With this update, users can show their QR codes to let anyone quickly scan and add them to their contacts list. The phone number would be stored in the form of QR codes and can be read by the scanner present in it. This is something like the QR codes we use to pay someone through UPI.
On the QR code section, you would get two tabs. One to show your QR code and the other one to scan someone’s QR code.
How to get this new feature
You test this QR code feature, you need to download the latest WhatsApp beta (version 2.20.171) for Android directly from the Google Play Beta program. You can also download the APK file from APK Mirror.
If you have an iPhone, then you can experience the new update by downloading the WhatsApp beta version 2.20.60.27 for iPhone from TestFlight.
Important Note – Please note that beta versions are specially designed only for testing purposes. So they often contain bugs. You should be careful before installing the beta update. If you want to test this feature then use a secondary device and just to see the update.
If you already have the beta version, then, update your app.
This new feature is implemented in both platforms in the same way. Open your WhatsApp app and navigate to WhatsApp Settings. If you got the latest version having the feature, then you will see a QR code icon near your profile information. Just click on the QR code icon.
This opens up a new page inside the app. On the first tab, you can see your QR code, and on the second tab (swipe left) you can scan QR codes from others.
You will also get an image picker icon to pick a pre-existing screenshot from your gallery to scan a code. You can change your QR code to prevent misuse. Users can revoke it an unlimited number of times.
To make the phone number adding process to WhatsApp, this is a welcome step by the app. When you share your QR Code, indirectly you’re also sharing your phone number.