WhatsApp users can now scan QR codes displayed by businesses on their storefronts, product packing or receipts to initiate chats with those businesses, rather than having to add the businesses’ WhatsApp numbers to their contacts.
The Facebook-owned messaging app said in a blog post that scanning a QR code will open a chat with an optional prepopulated message from the business, and businesses can quickly share information, including their catalogs.
QR codes are available to businesses globally via the WhatsApp Business app or application-programming interface starting Thursday.
Pointing out that more than 40 million users worldwide view business catalogs on WhatsApp each month, the app is now making catalogs and individual items available to be shared as links on websites, Facebook, Instagram and elsewhere.
Finally, WhatsApp said last week that it would begin rolling out animated sticker packs, and one of the first will be an Open for Business pack to help users and businesses connect, express gratitude and complete transactions.
WhatsApp said the sticker pack features 20 new designs curated by designers and local artists from Indonesia and Brazil.