Opening the same WhatsApp chat again and again can feel slow, especially when you talk daily with certain people. While WhatsApp on iPhone does not offer a direct shortcut button like Android, there are official and safe ways to create quick access to WhatsApp contacts using built-in iOS features.
This guide explains how to create WhatsApp contact shortcuts on iPhone step by step without using any unsafe tricks.
Also read: How to Lock WhatsApp Chats on iPhone for Better Privacy
Can You Create WhatsApp Contact Shortcuts on iPhone?
iPhone does not allow direct app shortcuts for individual WhatsApp chats by default. However, Apple provides tools like the Shortcuts app and Safari Home Screen options that make it possible to open specific WhatsApp chats faster.
All the methods below use official iOS and WhatsApp-supported features.
Method 1: Create WhatsApp Contact Shortcut Using the Shortcuts App
This is the most reliable and recommended method.
Steps to Follow
- Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone
- Tap the + icon to create a new shortcut
- Select Add Action
- Search for Open URL
- In the URL field, enter
https://wa.me/phone-numberReplace phone-number with the full number including country code, without spaces - Tap Done
- Tap the shortcut name and choose Add to Home Screen
- Select an icon and name for the contact
- Tap Add
Now, tapping this icon will open the WhatsApp chat directly with that contact.
Also read: How to Clear WhatsApp Call History Step by Step on Android and iPhone
Method 2: Use Safari to Add WhatsApp Chat to Home Screen
This method works well if you prefer not to use the Shortcuts app.
Steps
- Open Safari on your iPhone
- Type the WhatsApp chat link using this format
https://wa.me/phone-number - Open the link
- Tap the Share icon
- Select Add to Home Screen
- Rename the shortcut and confirm
The shortcut will appear on your Home Screen and open the WhatsApp chat when tapped.
Method 3: Pin WhatsApp Chats Inside the App
If you do not want Home Screen shortcuts, WhatsApp itself offers chat pinning.
How to Pin Chats
- Open WhatsApp
- Swipe right on the chat
- Tap Pin
Pinned chats always stay at the top, making them easier to access.
Also read: How to Edit Videos Directly in WhatsApp on Android and iPhone
Things to Keep in Mind
- Shortcuts require internet access
- Phone numbers must include the country code
- Do not add spaces or symbols in the WhatsApp link
- These methods do not affect privacy or account safety
Are These Methods Safe?
Yes. All the methods explained above use official WhatsApp links and Apple iOS features. No third-party apps or unauthorized access is involved.
Final Thoughts
Creating WhatsApp contact shortcuts on iPhone can save time and make daily communication easier. While iOS does not offer a one-tap built-in option, tools like the Shortcuts app and Safari provide safe and effective alternatives. Once set up, you can open important chats instantly from your Home Screen.
Also read: Understanding WhatsApp Call Status Messages and What They Actually Mean