WhatsApp is testing a new feature that lets you add and share contact details via QR code just like in Instagram and Snapchat

  • The new QR code feature is available for Android and iOS users with the beta app
  • It works in similar way to Snapchat Snapcodes, making it easier to add a contact 
  • There's no confirmed date for when the feature will be rolled out more widely 
  • A number of social apps already let users add contacts using QR codes including other Facebook-owned services like Instagram and Messenger 
Messaging service WhatsApp is adding support for QR codes to make it easier for people to add contacts to their list, according to WABetaInfo.
The new feature is currently only available in beta but those who have this version can use it on iOS and Android versions of the Facebook owned app. 
Users who have enabled the feature will be able to display their own QR code to others and scan codes of other WhatsApp accounts.
The QR codes can be revoked if users decide they'd rather not share their number with someone else anymore, the beta notes confirm.
Messaging service WhatsApp is adding support for QR codes to make it easier for people to add contacts to their list, according to WABetaInfo
Messaging service WhatsApp is adding support for QR codes to make it easier for people to add contacts to their list, according to WABetaInfo
The new feature is currently only available in beta but for those who have this version can use it on iOS and Android versions of the Facebook owned app. Users can reset their code
The new feature is currently only available in beta but for those who have this version can use it on iOS and Android versions of the Facebook owned app. Users can reset their code
It's a feature WhatsApp users have been asking for as an easier way of adding contacts to the app directly - rather than by sharing phone numbers.
At the moment for iOS users to add a contact, you have to add a contact to the Contact's Tab on the Phone App and can then send them a message in WhatsApp.
Adding new contacts by scanning or sharing a QR code is something already used by other social media platforms like Snapchat and Twitter.
Other Facebook owned platforms - Instagram and Messenger - already have have QR codes that allow people to easily add contacts or share their details.
WhatsApp announced plans to implement QR codes a year ago but have only just got round to implementing the feature.
The company haven't confirmed when or even if it will be added to the live app.  
When you have the beta version installed users can discovery the functionality in their settings section - then give it to others to scan using the WhatsApp camera.
Inside the app WhatsApp says: 'Your friends can scan or upload this QR code using the WhatsApp camera to get your number.'
The app works in a similar way to Snapcode - it lets you view and share your QR code with others
The app also allows you to scan someone elses code or even upload a screengrab of a code into the camera app
The QR codes can be revoked if users decide they'd rather not share their number with someone else anymore, the beta notes confirm
The QR code contains your name and phone number but, according to WABetaInfo, it can be revoked at any time to stop someone using it to add your details.  
Like Snapchat, Instagram and Messenger, you can share a screenshot of your QR code on other platforms or even via email to let others add you more quickly.
Users can then either scan it or upload the screenshot of the code into the WhatsApp camera from your photo library.
According to WABetaInfo the exact date it will be made available to the public hasn't been confirmed, but it could be in the next few days.  

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