Fix: WhatsApp QR Code Not Scanning
Troubleshoot QR code scanning issues during bot setup. Camera problems, expired QR, and pairing code alternatives.
The pairing QR refuses to be recognised by WhatsApp. Almost always one of: code already expired, camera focus issue, WhatsApp Web logged out everywhere recently, or a screen-zoom problem distorting the QR. Walk through this in order.
Confirm the symptoms
- Phone camera shows the QR but does not register it.
- Phone shows "QR code expired" within seconds.
- WhatsApp says "Cannot scan code" or hangs after scan.
30-second quick fix
- In BotWave, click "Regenerate QR", old codes expire after 20 seconds.
- Hold the phone steady 15-25 cm from the screen.
- If using a dual monitor, move the QR window to your primary display.
Root causes
1. QR expired (>20s old)
WhatsApp QR codes rotate every 20s for security.
- Regenerate.
2. Phone camera focus
Auto-focus needs a moment; if you move the phone too fast it cannot lock.
- Hold steady for 3 seconds.
3. Screen zoom / extreme HiDPI scaling
A QR rendered too large or too small fails QR detection.
- Reset browser zoom to 100%.
4. WhatsApp logged out everywhere
A recent "log out from all devices" can leave the Linked Devices screen in a weird state.
- Close and re-open WhatsApp.
Detailed resolution
- 1
Reset browser zoom to 100%
Ctrl/Cmd+0 in most browsers.
- 2
Click Regenerate QR
In BotWave Sessions.
- 3
Phone: WhatsApp → Settings → Linked Devices → Link a Device
Wait for the camera viewfinder.
- 4
Hold the phone steady ~20 cm from the QR for 3 seconds
Lock focus before moving.
- 5
If repeated failure, switch to pairing code
Click "Pair with phone number instead" in BotWave.
Expected result
Phone vibrates and connects within 5 seconds; BotWave flips to "Connected".
Prevent it next time
- Use pairing-code mode by default, no camera required.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a screenshot of the QR from another device?
WhatsApp blocks screenshots of QR codes scanned from a screen → another screen. Use the camera on the actual phone.
Still stuck?
Open a support ticket from the dashboard and we will look at your session logs directly.