WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform owned by Meta, has begun testing a new feature that enables users to scan documents directly from within the app. This addition aims to simplify document sharing by eliminating the need for third-party scanning apps.
Currently available to a limited group of beta testers, the feature is part of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android (version 2.25.19.21), accessible through the Google Play Store. Positioned within the document-sharing interface, the new “Scan document” option allows users to capture high-quality scans using their phone’s camera.
Once selected, the feature activates the camera and displays a live preview to help users align the document correctly. WhatsApp offers two scanning modes for flexibility: manual mode for those who prefer to control the exact moment of capture, and automatic mode, which detects document edges and takes the photo without additional input — ideal for quick scans.
After scanning, the app converts the image into a PDF file locally on the user’s device. The document remains stored on the device until the user chooses to send it in a chat or group.
WhatsApp has indicated that the feature will gradually become available to more users over the coming weeks.
