WhatsApp has become one of the most widely used communication tools in the world. Its constant updates not only improve the user experience in messaging, but also add new features that make the application even more useful. One of the latest additions is the possibility of using a scanner directly within WhatsApp, which allows, for example, scanning QR codes or even documents without the need to use external applications.
In this article, we'll explore in detail how the WhatsApp scanner works on Android, what uses it can be given, how to scan documents and send them in PDF format, and what alternatives exist in case the feature is not yet available on your device. Let's take a step-by-step look at it.
How to scan QR codes on WhatsApp
One of the most common uses of the scanner in WhatsApp is to read QR codes, making it easier to access contacts or connect to WhatsApp Web without having to manually enter information. For more information on how to connect your account, you can check out this article on start WhatsApp Web without QR code.
- Open WhatsApp on your mobile: Go to the settings screen by tapping on the three dots at the top right.
- Select the QR icon: Inside the settings menu, you will find a small square icon with a QR code.
- Scan a QR code: If you need to connect WhatsApp Web or add a contact, simply point the camera at the corresponding QR code. If you need to know how to add contacts, you can visit this link about Add contacts to WhatsApp with QR codes.
From that moment, the app will decrypt the information and perform the necessary action, whether it be logging into WhatsApp Web or quickly adding a new contact.
Scan documents directly into WhatsApp
One of the main new features of WhatsApp is the incorporation of a document scanner into its application, eliminating the need to use other apps to digitize files. Currently, this functionality is available in the iOS version and is expected to arrive soon on Android.
To scan a document in WhatsApp, follow these steps:
- Open a chat: Access a conversation in which you want to send the document.
- Click on the clip icon: This icon allows you to attach files in the chat.
- Select the 'Scan Document' option: Within the menu, this new function will appear.
- Capture the document with the camera: WhatsApp will detect the edges and automatically adjust the image.
Once scanned, you can preview the image, make adjustments, and send it directly to PDF, making it easier to share files in a professional or personal environment. This ability to scan and send documents is a very useful feature that is constantly improving, enhancing the user experience.
Alternatives for scanning documents on Android
If the option to scan documents in WhatsApp is not yet available on your mobile, there are quick solutions to do it from your device without having to install complicated external applications.
One of the best options is to use Google Files, an app that comes pre-installed on many Android devices and has a built-in scanning function.
To scan a document with Google Files and send it via WhatsApp:
- Open Google Files: Find the app on your phone and open it.
- Press the scan icon: At the bottom right, you will find the option to scan documents.
- Choose between automatic or manual mode: If the automatic mode recognizes the document correctly, it will be scanned automatically.
- Save as PDF: Once the image is taken, you can save it in PDF format.
- Share on WhatsApp: From Google Files, select the file and send it to any contact or group.
While WhatsApp is adding more and more features, it's always good to have alternatives like Google Files. Also, you might be interested in finding out how to Send files from Android to iPhone via WhatsApp, which can be useful when you need to share documents between different systems.
Other features of the WhatsApp scanner
In addition to scanning QR codes and documents, WhatsApp is adding improvements that make file management and interaction between users easier. Some interesting features that are being extended are:
- Auto Crop: WhatsApp detects the edges of the document and adjusts them without you having to edit the image manually.
- Convert to PDF in one step: Once the document is scanned, it is automatically generated in PDF format.
- Better quality when sending files: Scanned documents can be sent uncompressed to maintain clarity.
WhatsApp continues to evolve to become a more complete and versatile tool. The possibility of scanning documents directly from the app greatly simplifies file management and eliminates the need to use external applications. Although the document scanning function is only slowly reaching Android users at the moment, there are alternatives such as Google Files that allow you to digitize files and easily share them via WhatsApp.
This improvement undoubtedly represents a significant advance in the application.