How to scan a QR code on iPhone and Android
You do not need an app. The camera on any recent iPhone or Android phone reads QR codes on its own.
The fix
On iPhone
- 1
Open Camera in Photo mode.
- 2
Point it at the code so it fits on screen.
- 3
Tap the yellow link that appears.
The fix
On Android
- 1
Open the Camera app and point it at the code.
- 2
Tap the link that pops up.
- 3
If nothing happens, tap Google Lens in the camera or open the Google app and tap the Lens icon.
The fix
If it will not scan
- 1
Turn on QR scanning.
iPhone: Settings › Camera › Scan QR Codes. Samsung: Camera settings › Scan QR codes.
- 2
Use Photo mode, not Portrait or Video.
- 3
Clean the lens and move to better light.
- 4
Move the phone closer or further until the code is sharp.
- 5
Try the Code Scanner in Control Center (iPhone).
Frequently asked questions
How do I scan a QR code from a screenshot?
On iPhone, open the image in Photos and touch and hold the QR code, or tap the Live Text button. On Android, open it in Google Photos and tap Lens.
Are QR codes safe?
Most are, but scammers stick fake codes on parking meters and in emails. Check the web address before opening it, and never enter passwords or payment details from a code you did not expect.
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