Swapnika Nag
|
Aug 5, 2024
Getting Started
Have you ever wanted to effortlessly switch between your phone and computer while using WhatsApp? Or maybe you want to manage multiple WhatsApp sessions at the same time? Say hello to WhatsApp Web, an extension that brings the convenience of the world’s most popular messaging app right to your desktop.
With over 2 billion active users globally, WhatsApp’s popularity is immense, and WhatsApp Web is an integral part of that experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about using WhatsApp Web QR codes.
What is a WhatsApp Web QR Code
WhatsApp Web is a browser-based version of the popular messaging app WhatsApp. It mirrors your conversations and messages from your mobile device to your computer, enabling you to send and receive messages directly from your desktop.
WhatsApp Web QR code is a unique code that WhatsApp generates to help you to connect to the browser based WhatsApp Web. This feature is incredibly useful for those who spend a lot of time on their computers and prefer the convenience of a larger screen and full-sized keyboard.
WhatsApp Web lets you run up to four parallel sessions, allowing you to connect the same WhatsApp instance seamlessly across multiple devices, in addition to your phone.
WhatsApp Web vs. WhatsApp Desktop App
WhatsApp Web: Accessed through any browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari), this option is flexible and doesn’t require downloading any software.
WhatsApp Desktop App: Offers slightly faster performance as it runs locally, ideal for users who frequently use WhatsApp on their computers.
Both options rely on scanning a QR code to link your phone, though the Desktop app is beneficial for power users or those who work offline.
3 Simple Steps to Scan a WhatsApp Web QR Code
Step 1: Open your preferred web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari etc) and type web.whatsapp.com. A QR code should appear on your screen as below -
Step 2: Open the WhatsApp app on your phone and:
For Android: Tap on the three dots menu on the top right of the screen and click "Linked Devices" from the dropdown
For iOS: Click on "Settings" on the bottom-right of the screen, and click "Linked Devices"
Step 3: Click on "Link a Device" which will open up a QR scanner. Point this scanner at the QR code on the web browser
That's it! You are now connected to WhatsApp Web. All of your WhatsApp chats, groups, messages, media and contacts will automatically sync in real time.
Key Features and Customisations
Key Features Available on WhatsApp Web
Once connected, you can leverage WhatsApp Web’s core features:
Messaging: Send and receive messages seamlessly synced with your phone.
Attachments: Share photos, videos, and documents directly from your computer.
Status Viewing: View your contacts’ statuses and upload your own updates.
Real-time Notifications: Get instant notifications (ensure notifications are enabled in your browser).
Note: Unlike the mobile app, WhatsApp Web currently does not support voice or video calling.
Advanced Settings and Customization on WhatsApp Web
Enhance your WhatsApp Web experience by exploring these settings:
Dark Mode: Enable dark mode to reduce eye strain:
Click on the three-dot menu above the chat list, select Settings > Theme > Dark.
Keyboard Shortcuts: Boost productivity with these shortcuts:
Ctrl + N: New chat
Ctrl + Shift + ]: Next chat
Ctrl + Shift + [: Previous chat
Ctrl + E: Archive chat
WhatsApp Web on Multiple Devices & Other Pro Tips
How to Use WhatsApp Web on Multiple Devices
WhatsApp Web supports linking multiple devices but limits simultaneous sessions. Only one active web or desktop session can run at a time. Here’s how to manage device linking:
Access Linked Devices on your phone to see a list of devices.
Tap any listed device to log it out.
Tip: This feature is beneficial for managing work and personal computers without repeated logins.
Pro Tips for WhatsApp Web Power Users
To maximize productivity on WhatsApp Web, consider these tips:
Bookmark Chats: Pin frequently used chats to the top of your chat list for quick access (available in Settings).
Search Messages: Use the search function to find specific messages quickly.
Privacy Settings: Adjust your Last Seen status or Profile Picture visibility on the mobile app to control how others see your activity.
Security and Privacy Considerations
WhatsApp Web is secure, but here are essential tips for added protection:
End-to-End Encryption: All messages remain encrypted, even when viewed on WhatsApp Web. This ensures that only you and the person you’re messaging can read what’s sent.
Logout on Shared Devices: Always log out after using WhatsApp Web on shared computers to prevent unauthorized access.
You can log out either from the browser or remotely through the Linked Devices option on your phone.
How to Log Out of WhatsApp Web
In Browser: Click on the three-dot menu above your chat list and select Log out.
From Your Phone: Go to Settings > Linked Devices, tap the session you want to end, and confirm logout.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even the best tools can encounter hiccups. Here’s how to tackle common issues with WhatsApp Web:
Connection Problems: Ensure both your phone and computer are connected to the internet. WhatsApp Web requires a stable connection on both devices.
QR Code Not Scanning: Clean your phone’s camera lens and refresh the web page to generate a new QR code. You also need to make sure WhatsApp has permission to access your phone’s camera. You can check this in your phone’s settings.
Messages Not Syncing: Restart your phone and computer, and make sure both are updated to the latest WhatsApp versions.
Browser Compatibility: Use a modern browser like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. Older or unsupported browsers may cause issues.
Using WhatsApp Web for Business
Many businesses, both large and small, rely heavily on WhatsApp for managing their daily sales, customer success, and operations. However, scaling these efforts can become challenging and cumbersome. That's where a platform like Periskope comes in, automating your day-to-day operations on WhatsApp.
Here are some effective ways businesses streamline their WhatsApp activities with Periskope:
Multi-Number Dashboard: Connect and manage multiple WhatsApp numbers from a single interface.
Shared Inbox: Allow hundreds of team members to view and reply through one connected number, improving response times and collaboration.
WhatsApp Groups Management: Automatically create WhatsApp groups, schedule and send messages, set quick replies, and more to keep group communications organized and efficient.
Ticketing and AI Flagging: Stay on top of important customer queries with automated ticketing and AI-powered flagging.
If you manage high volumes of WhatsApp interactions daily, Periskope can significantly boost your productivity, allowing you to focus on important customer and team conversations. Sign up for a 14-day free trial today!
