Step 1: Download and Install the WooCommerce Mobile App
1.1 Locate the App in Your Device’s App Store
To begin, open the official app store for your mobile device. If you’re using an Apple device (iPhone, iPad), open the “App Store” application. For Android devices, open the “Google Play Store” application. Once the store is open, tap on the search icon (often a magnifying glass) and type “WooCommerce” into the search bar. Press enter or tap the search button to initiate the search. Look for the official WooCommerce app, typically identified by its orange WooCommerce logo.
1.2 Install the App on Your Smartphone or Tablet
After locating the official WooCommerce app in the search results, tap on its icon to view its details page. On this page, you will see an “Install,” “Get,” or “Download” button. Tap this button to begin the installation process. Your device may ask for your password, fingerprint, or facial recognition to confirm the download. Ensure you have a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi is recommended to avoid data charges) and sufficient storage space on your device. Once downloaded, the app will automatically install, and its icon will appear on your home screen or in your app drawer.
Step 2: Connect Your WooCommerce Store to the App
2.1 Log In with Your WordPress.com Account (if applicable)
Upon opening the WooCommerce mobile app for the first time, you will be presented with an option to connect your store. If your WooCommerce store is hosted on WordPress.com or connected to a WordPress.com account, you can select the “Continue with WordPress.com” option. Enter your WordPress.com username and password when prompted. This method provides a streamlined connection for stores integrated with the WordPress.com ecosystem.
2.2 Scan the QR Code from Your WooCommerce Admin Dashboard
For most self-hosted WooCommerce stores, the primary method of connection is via a QR code. In the app, select the option to “Connect your store” or “Scan QR Code.” The app will then prompt you to allow camera access. Grant this permission. Next, on your desktop computer, log in to your WordPress admin dashboard. Navigate to “WooCommerce” > “Mobile App” (or sometimes “Settings” > “Mobile App”). On this page, you will find a unique QR code displayed. Using your mobile device, carefully position your phone’s camera over the QR code on your computer screen. The app will automatically scan and connect to your store. You may be asked to confirm the connection on your desktop browser.
Step 3: Navigate and Manage Your Store Within the App
3.1 Review Your Dashboard and Key Performance Indicators
Once connected, the app’s home screen will display your store’s dashboard. Here, you’ll find key performance indicators (KPIs) such as total sales, number of orders, and top-selling products for selected date ranges (e.g., today, yesterday, last 7 days, this month). You can tap on these metrics to drill down into more detailed reports. This dashboard provides a quick overview of your store’s health and performance without needing to log into your desktop admin panel.
3.2 Process and Fulfill Orders on the Go
The “Orders” section of the app (usually accessible from the bottom navigation bar) allows you to manage customer orders. Tap on an individual order to view its details, including customer information, items purchased, shipping address, and payment status. From this screen, you can change the order status (e.g., from “Processing” to “Completed”), add tracking numbers, and even refund orders if necessary. To update a status, tap the current status, select the new status from the dropdown, and confirm. For tracking, look for an “Add Tracking” button or field within the order details.
Step 4: Utilize Advanced Features and Settings
4.1 Add New Products Directly from Your Mobile Device
The WooCommerce mobile app allows for basic product management. To add a new product, navigate to the “Products” section. Tap the “+” icon (or similar) to create a new product. You can then enter the product name, description, regular price, sale price, and upload product images directly from your phone’s camera or gallery. You can also set inventory levels and choose product categories. While not as comprehensive as the desktop interface, it’s ideal for quick additions or updates.
4.2 Customize Notifications and App Preferences
To tailor the app experience, go to the “Settings” or “More” section (often represented by a gear icon or three dots). Here, you can manage various preferences. Crucially, you can customize notifications. For example, you can enable or disable notifications for new orders, low stock alerts, or product reviews. You can also adjust sound alerts for new orders. Additionally, you might find options to switch between stores (if you manage multiple WooCommerce sites) or to log out of your current store.
FAQs
Can I manage multiple WooCommerce stores with one app installation?
Yes, the WooCommerce mobile app supports managing multiple stores. After connecting your first store, you can usually find an option in the app’s “Settings” or “More” tab to “Add another store” or “Switch Store.” You’ll then go through the connection process (QR code or WordPress.com login) for each additional store. Once connected, you can easily switch between your stores from the same settings menu.
Is it possible to create discount coupons from the mobile app?
As of the latest major versions, the WooCommerce mobile app primarily focuses on core store management like orders, products, and analytics. While you can view existing coupons, the functionality to create new discount coupons directly from the mobile app is generally not available. For creating new coupons with specific parameters (e.g., usage limits, expiry dates), you will need to access your WooCommerce admin dashboard on a desktop browser.
What if the QR code scanning fails to connect my store?
If the QR code scanning fails, first ensure your internet connection is stable on both your mobile device and your computer. Check that your computer screen’s brightness is sufficient and there are no glare issues. Also, make sure your mobile device’s camera has clear access to the QR code and that you’ve granted camera permissions to the app. If it still fails, try refreshing the QR code page in your desktop WooCommerce admin, or as a last resort, consider manually connecting by entering your store’s URL and consumer key/secret, which can usually be generated under WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced > REST API on your desktop.
Are all WooCommerce extensions and plugins supported or visible in the mobile app?
No, the WooCommerce mobile app does not provide direct support or visibility for all WooCommerce extensions and plugins. The app is designed to manage core WooCommerce functionalities (products, orders, analytics, customers). While some popular extensions might have limited integration or their data might be reflected in core areas (e.g., subscription orders appearing in the orders list), you cannot configure or manage most third-party plugin settings directly through the app. For extension-specific management, you will need to use your desktop WooCommerce admin dashboard.
