QR code WeChat : everything you need to know (2024)

What is WeChat?

WeChat is a versatile app developed by Tencent, launched in 2011, that has grown to become one of the most widely used applications globally.

While it started as a simple messaging platform, WeChat has evolved into an all-in-one app, combining social networking, mobile payments, e-commerce, and even business solutions.

With over 1.4 billion active users, WeChat serves as a hub for personal interactions and professional services. It is one of the main social networks in China.

A key feature that stands out is its seamless integration of QR codes (Quick Response Code), which facilitates everything from payments to social interactions for WeChat users.

How to Scan a QR Code with WeChat ?

Scanning a code with WeChat is quick and simple:

1. Open the WeChat app.
2. Tap the “+” icon in the upper-right corner.
3. Select “Scan” from the menu.
4. Point your camera at the QR code you want to scan.
5. WeChat will automatically recognize it and either display the relevant information or redirect you to the corresponding action, such as adding a contact, accessing a mini-program, or making a payment.

Different Types of WeChat QR Codes

WeChat offers several types of QR codes, each serving a specific purpose:

• Personal : Used to add someone as a contact on WeChat.
• Official Account : Allows users to follow a WeChat Official
• Account for businesses or influencers.
• Mini-Program : Directs users to specific mini-programs within the app.
• WeChat Pay : Facilitates mobile payments, allowing users to pay merchants or individuals.
• External Link : Redirects users to external websites or apps via WeChat.

Each QR code serves different business or personal functions, and can be shared in Wechat Chats and Wechat groups.

How to Generate a Personal WeChat QR Code ?

Creating your personal WeChat QR code is straightforward and allows others to easily add you as a contact:

1. Open the WeChat app on your mobile device and connect to your WeChat account.
2. Go to your profile by tapping on your avatar in the “Me” section.
3. Select “My QR Code” from the profile page.
4. Your personal code will appear, which you can save or share directly with others.

This personal QR code makes it simple for friends and colleagues to connect with you on WeChat.

How to Download a WeChat Official Account QR Code ?

Generating a QR code for your WeChat Official Account allows users to follow your account easily. Here’s how:

1. Log in to your WeChat Official Account via the WeChat backend (WeChat web).
2. Navigate to the “Settings” section.
3. Select the option for “QR Code” to generate your official account QR code.
4. Download the QR code and share it on social media, websites, or printed materials to encourage followers to scan and connect with your account.

This makes it easy to grow your audience and interact with followers. In the native version of WeChat, it is not possible to track scan counts.

How to Generate a WeChat Mini-Program QR Code ?

Creating a QR code for a WeChat mini-program allows users to directly access your mini-program by scanning the code. Here’s how:

1. Log in to the WeChat Mini-Program backend platform.
2. Navigate to the “QR Code” section.
3. Select the mini-program for which you want to generate the QR code.
4. Download the generated QR image and share it with your audience.

This makes it easy for users to access your mini-program instantly, improving user engagement and accessibility.

How to Generate a WeChat Pay QR Code ?

WeChat Pay QR codes are widely used for seamless mobile payments. Here’s how to generate one:

1. Open the WeChat app and navigate to the “Me” section.
2. Select “WeChat Pay” (or “Wallet”, depending on your app version).
3. Tap on “Money” and select “Receive Money”.
4. Your WeChat Pay QR code will appear, which others can scan to send you payments directly.

This QR code is ideal for merchants, businesses, physical stores or individuals looking to facilitate payments quickly and securely.

It is important to note that a bank card can be required to be able to activate Wechat Pay.

How to Generate a WeChat QR Code for External Links ?

Since WeChat doesn’t allow direct generation of external links through its built-in QR code scanner, you’ll need to use a third-party app like Caoliao.

This app allows you to create dynamic digital barcode, which are editable and trackable in a centralized dashboard. You can customize the link and design of your dynamic Qr Codes and monitor performance through features like scan counts.

Once your dynamic mobile code is generated in Caoliao, you can easily share it within WeChat for users to access external websites or content.

Conclusion

WeChat offers a versatile and powerful way to connect, interact, and transact in China’s digital ecosystem.

Whether for personal connections, business growth, or payments, WeChat QR codes simplify navigating the platform and make your marketing efforts more efficient.

Understanding the different types of WeChat QR codes and how to generate them enhances your presence and engagement in real time, providing opportunities for deeper interaction with users and better tracking of user activity for marketing optimization.