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    Don't want to share your number? WhatsApp testing feature to let users add contacts by QR code

    Synopsis

    The feature is in the latter stages of the testing process, and is likely to be rolled out to a select users.

    whatsapp-reutersReuters
    The downside to this is that miscreants can capture the QR code and share it online. Testers reckon that WhatsApp will include an option whereby the setting can be revoked.
    ‘What’s your number?’

    The question has for long prompted people to grab a pen and jot down, or type by hand, people’s phone numbers, often leading to new business opportunities, friendships, or even romantic relationships. However, things are about to change in 2020.

    WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature whereby users will be able to add new contacts using QR codes. A report by the tipster WABetaInfo indicates that a new beta version of the app is being tested which allows users to add new friends to their contact list by sharing their QR code.

    Testers were able to view a small QR code on their settings tab which new acquaintances would be able to scan to view one’s phone number and ID. The downside to this is that miscreants can capture the QR code and share it online. Testers reckon that WhatsApp will include an option whereby the setting can be revoked.

    Facebook has toyed with QR codes for WhatsApp in the recent past. The app’s web client requires users to scan a QR code on the laptop or desktop screen with one’s phone app to access. It is as yet unclear if the feature will be rolled out to all of WhatsApp’s users, numbering over two billion.

    According to the report, the feature is in the latter stages of the testing process, and it is likely to be rolled out to a select users in the beginning. It does not address existing issues such as dealing with spam messages from people who are not on your contact list.

    Moreover, it could lead to a few uncomfortable and awkward situations if someone you don’t want to talk to asks for your QR code and you can’t get away by giving a false number.


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