WhatsApp Tests Document Scanning Feature in Android App

Recent reports indicate that WhatsApp, owned by Meta, is working on a new feature that will allow Android users to directly scan documents using their phone's camera within the app. According to a report provided by WABetaInfo, this functionality is currently being tested in version 2.25.18.29 of the Android beta release. Once available, users will be able to scan documents and send them as PDFs without relying on third-party applications.

This feature introduces a new "Scan Document" option in the attachment menu, which is typically used for sending files. After selecting this option, the phone's camera will activate, enabling users to scan documents similarly to how they would with a dedicated scanning app.

Once the document is scanned, WhatsApp automatically converts it into a PDF file, ready to be shared directly through chat. The scanning tool offers two modes: manual and automatic. In manual mode, users take the photo by pressing the shutter button, while in automatic mode, the app detects the edges of the document and captures the image, streamlining the process.

The report highlights that this upcoming document scanning feature operates entirely on the device, utilizing Android’s native APIs for image capture and processing. Processing occurs locally, ensuring that scanned files are not uploaded to external servers or cloud storage by default but are securely stored on the device. The document will only be sent via WhatsApp when the user chooses to share it, and once sent, it remains protected by WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption, meaning only the sender and recipient can view the content. While the feature is initially being developed for Android, it is expected to roll out more broadly in future updates.

Notably, WhatsApp first introduced this document scanning capability to iPhone users in December 2024. It appeared in version 24.25.80 and was enhanced in version 24.25.89. iOS users were among the first to see the "Scan Document" option in the attachment menu.

In parallel, the highly popular messaging platform is also testing several significant AI-driven features, including "Summarize with Meta AI," which provides a brief overview of unread messages, "Writing Assistance," offering tone and clarity suggestions before messages are sent, and "Message Translation," enabling real-time AI-powered translations within chats.

Alongside these advancements, the platform is also bolstering its privacy efforts amid global backlash over various issues, including controversial policy updates in the past. Recently, WhatsApp joined forces with Apple and other privacy advocates to oppose a UK government proposal that would require tech companies to provide a "backdoor" to access encrypted data.