What the customer sees
Scanning opens WhatsApp (or the app store if it is missing) with a chat to that number. The optional message is typed for them — “Hi, I scanned the window at King Street” saves you asking which shop.
Why not encode wa.me as static?
You can turn tracking off and bake the wa.me URL into the pattern. Keeping it dynamic means you can change the number, the greeting, or even move the same poster to a booking page later.
How to make a WhatsApp QR code
- Type the numberCountry code included. Spaces and brackets are fine — we strip them.
- Optional first messageA short line that tells you where they scanned.
- Download with tracking onA Qex short link is created. Edit the destination later if the number changes.
Questions
Do they need my number saved?
No. wa.me starts a chat with a number that is not in their address book.
Is this an official WhatsApp tool?
No. We build a normal https://wa.me link, which WhatsApp publishes for this purpose, and put a QR on it.
Can I change the pre-filled message later?
Yes if tracking is on — edit the destination (or recreate the wa.me URL and paste it). A static code cannot change.
Will this work on iPhone?
Yes. If WhatsApp is installed it opens the chat; if not, the store listing usually appears.