How to Scan QR Codes on iPhone & Android
Scanning QR codes is simple on both iPhone and Android devices. Modern smartphones have built-in QR scanning capabilities, eliminating the need for third-party apps in most cases.
📱 Scanning QR Codes on iPhone
Method 1: Using the Camera App (iOS 11+)
- Open the Camera app from your home screen or lock screen
- Point your camera at the QR code - ensure the entire code is visible
- Wait for the notification to appear at the top of the screen
- Tap the notification to open the link or content
💡 Pro Tip: Make sure "Scan QR Codes" is enabled in Settings → Camera. This feature is on by default on iOS 11 and later.
Method 2: Using Control Center
- Open Control Center (swipe down from top-right on iPhone X+ or swipe up from bottom on older models)
- Tap the Code Scanner icon (if added to Control Center)
- Point at the QR code and it will scan automatically
Method 3: Using Spotlight Search
On iOS 15+, you can scan QR codes from photos:
- Open the Photos app and select an image with a QR code
- Tap the QR code in the image
- Tap the popup to open the content
🤖 Scanning QR Codes on Android
Method 1: Using Google Lens (Recommended)
- Open the Camera app or Google app
- Tap the Google Lens icon (usually bottom-right)
- Point at the QR code - it will detect and show results automatically
- Tap the result to open the link or perform the action
Method 2: Samsung Camera (Samsung Devices)
- Open the Camera app
- Enable "Scan QR codes" in Camera settings (if not already on)
- Point at the QR code and tap the popup
✓ Note: Different Android manufacturers have slightly different methods. Check your Camera app settings for QR scanning options.
Method 3: Quick Settings Tile (Android 9+)
- Swipe down from the top to open Quick Settings
- Look for a "Scan QR code" or similar tile
- Tap it to open the QR scanner
- Point at the QR code to scan
📲 Best QR Code Scanner Apps
While built-in scanners work great, these apps offer additional features:
Google Lens
Available on both iOS and Android. Scans QR codes, text, products, and more. Free and highly accurate.
RecommendedKaspersky QR Scanner
Security-focused scanner that checks for malicious QR codes. Free and available on both platforms.
QR Code Reader by Scan
Fast, simple, and ad-free. Supports all QR formats and has a scan history feature.
NeoReader
Professional QR and barcode scanner. Works offline and supports batch scanning.
🔧 Troubleshooting QR Scanning Issues
❌ QR Code Won't Scan
- Ensure QR code scanning is enabled in Camera settings
- Clean your camera lens
- Improve lighting conditions
- Hold phone steady and at proper distance (6-12 inches)
- Check if the QR code is damaged or too small
- Update your phone's operating system
❌ Notification Doesn't Appear
- Check if "Scan QR Codes" is enabled in settings
- Restart the Camera app
- Restart your phone
- Try using Google Lens or a dedicated app
❌ Low Contrast QR Codes
- Increase screen brightness when scanning from screens
- Adjust lighting to reduce glare or shadows
- Use a QR scanner app with manual adjustment features
- Request a better-quality QR code if possible
💡 Best Practices for Scanning QR Codes
✓ Good Lighting
Scan in well-lit areas. Avoid harsh shadows or glare on the QR code.
✓ Proper Distance
Hold phone 6-12 inches away. Move closer or farther if not detecting.
✓ Steady Hands
Keep your phone still for clear focus. Use both hands if needed.
✓ Full Code Visible
Ensure entire QR code including white border is in frame.