WhatsApp to soon introduce Snapchat-like QR codes to add contacts

• WhatsApp is working on introducing QR codes to allow easy contact sharing.
• Users can add contacts just by scanning the QR code in WhatsApp.

Popular messaging app WhatsApp is working on introducing a new feature that will make it easier for users to share their number with others and the ability to save a contact just by scanning a QR code.

It’s a particularly handy feature if you’re forced to share your contact details with someone for the sake of formality, but don’t actually want them to add you since you can reset the QR code at any time — and the old QR code will be invalid. Just make sure you don’t share your actual phone number and beware that they may come chasing after you again.

As per a WABetaInfo report, QR Code scanning was first introduced in the iOS beta and now has made its way to the Android beta of the app. The feature is available in the 2.20.171 version of the app.

The QR Code scanning feature is similar to Snapchat’s Snapcode feature. Even Instagram introduced something similar earlier. Its ‘Nametag’ feature allowed other users to find your profile using a scannable code.

How does this work?

The process is quite simple – all you need to do is share the QR code with others so that they can you to their contact list, or scan their QR Code to add them in your contacts.

How to use WhatsApp’s QR codes

You can use the QR codes feature if you are a part of beta or once the stable version of the feature is rolled out for the stable version — the one that conventional users normally have on their phones. To use the feature, follow the steps below –

• Update the WhatsApp app from the Google Play Store or the App Store.
• Open the app and click on the three dots at the top to open the menu and then click on ‘Settings’.
• On the right side of your name, click on the QR code button.
• It will now show your photo, name, number and your QR code.
• Click on the share button at the top right corner to share this code with others.
• You can also scan your friend’s code by clicking on the ‘Scan Code’ window.

You can also reset your code at any time so that someone who already has your code will no longer be able to add you.

How to reset QR code in WhatsApp

• In the ‘My Code’ section, tap on the three dots menu.
• Click on ‘Reset QR code’.
• It will ask you to confirm. Click on ‘Reset’ followed by ‘Ok’.

Now, your QR code’s been reset and anyone that has this code will not be able to add you.

SEE ALSO:

How to schedule WhatsApp messages

WhatsApp's upcoming feature will allow you to open the messenger in many devices at the same time

How to use IFCN’s WhatsApp fact checker to fight Coronavirus misinformation