Does the person scanning need to have my number saved?

No — that's the whole point. They scan, WhatsApp opens, and a chat with your number starts. No saving to contacts, no typing digits. This is why it works so well for shop windows, table cards, and flyers.

Can I change the pre-filled message later?

No. The message is encoded into the QR code itself. If you want to update it — swap a promo code, change a greeting — generate a new code and swap out the old one. The original code will keep working with the original message indefinitely.

Is my phone number stored by QR Code Zebra?

No. Your number is processed entirely in your browser to build the WhatsApp link. It never reaches our servers — there are none. Close the tab and it's gone.

What if I leave the message field blank?

The code still works — it just opens a blank chat with your number. Useful if you want people to contact you freely without a suggested opener. The message field is entirely optional.

Will this work on a desktop computer?

If someone uses their phone camera to scan it, they'll go straight to the WhatsApp app. On desktop, clicking the generated link will open WhatsApp Web if they're logged in. Either way, as long as they have WhatsApp, it works.

Why the 200-character limit on the message?

More text means a more complex QR pattern, which is harder to scan at small sizes. 200 characters is enough for a clear, friendly opening message — and the person scanning can always add to it before they send.

Do I need a WhatsApp Business account for this?

No. It works with a regular personal number just as well as a Business account. As long as the number you enter is registered with WhatsApp, scanning will open a chat.

How do I check I've entered the number correctly?

Watch the preview as you type. The chat bubble updates in real time — if the number looks right in the preview, the code will work. Always do a quick test scan with your own phone before printing.

WhatsApp Number

Include your country code — that's the + and digits before your number.

Pre-filled Message0/200

Optional. The scanner sees this text ready to send — they can edit it before hitting send.

+44 7123 456789

No message — opens blank chat

WhatsApp QR Code Generator

Scan to open a WhatsApp chat — no saving numbers, no typing, just one tap to message you.

How to create a WhatsApp QR code

Fill in your details in the preview card above.
The QR code updates instantly as you type.
Download as PNG for print or SVG for design tools.

WhatsApp QR Code Generator

How to create a WhatsApp QR code

Frequently Asked Questions