- Native function to scan and send PDF documents from a chat, without external apps.
- Access from Attach > Document > Scan Document, with preview and editing.
- Two capture modes: automatic (detects edges) and manual (full control).
- Gradual availability on Android and iOS; it's a good idea to update the app if it isn't already available.
WhatsApp incorporates an integrated tool for Scan and send documents in PDF format via WhatsApp directly from the chat. With this new feature, routine tasks such as sending receipts, contracts, notes or invoices are resolved in a few steps and without resorting to third-party applications.
The feature was available on iPhone and is rolling out gradually on Android, so some users will see it before others. The entire process is done within the conversation, maintaining end-to-end encryption and confidentiality of shared files.
How to scan and send a PDF from WhatsApp
Access is in the chat attachments menu: tap the paperclip icon (Android) or the “+” (iPhone), choose “Document” and, at the end of the list, enter “Scan document”From there, the mobile camera opens in scanner mode.
- Open the conversation where you want to send the file.
- Click on To attach (clip/+).
- Select Document.
- Play Scan document to activate the camera in scanner mode.
- Choose mode Automatic o Manual and capture the paper.
- Review the preview and adjust borders, rotation or filters if necessary.
- Confirm with "OK" and send; the file is shared as a PDF.
After capturing, WhatsApp shows a document preview to crop the useful area, straighten it if it's crooked, and apply filters that improve readability (e.g., black and white). Before sending it, you can add a comment to provide context to the recipient.
If the document has several pages, use the option keep and continue scanning to add more sheets and generate a Multi-page PDF. When everything is ready, confirm and will be sent as a PDF file that the contact can easily open or save.
Capture, editing, and scan quality options
The camera works in two modes: in Automatic detects the document, frames it with a box (usually displayed in green) and takes the photo when the mobile is still; in Manual You decide the moment of capture, which gives more control in complicated situations.
In the editing phase you can adjust edges to precisely delimit, rotate to correct the orientation and apply filters that enhance the contrast of the text. These settings help make the final PDF readable even if the original photo wasn't perfect, and if you need to, you can convert photos to PDF.
For best results, place the document on a contrasting surfaceAvoid shadows and ensure even lighting. Holding your phone up or using automatic mode in good light often improves scan sharpness.
Shipping is done as PDF file within the chat itself, maintaining the protection of end-to-end encryption. This allows you to share IDs, receipts, or proof of identity more reliably than a simple photo.
Availability, requirements and what to do if it doesn't appear
The tool is present in the Recent versions of WhatsApp for Android and iOS, but its activation happens in stages. If you don't see it yet, update the app from Google Play or the App Store and check back later.
The deployment may vary depending on the region and system versionIf the "Scan Document" option doesn't appear after updating, it should usually be enabled in the next few days. In the meantime, it's a good idea to keep the app up to date.
This integration reduces steps and avoids installing extra utilities: with the native scanner you can digitize and share ID, invoices, notes or receipts without leaving the chat and with basic editing tools available to anyone.
The function of Scan and send PDF on WhatsApp It provides speed, convenience, and privacy: capture from the chat, correct what's needed, generate a PDF (even multi-page) and share it securely, both on Android and iPhone, keeping the app updated to receive the latest news.
