iPhone (iOS 11 and later)
- Open the Camera app
- Point it at the QR code — no need to take a photo
- Tap the yellow banner/notification that pops up
You can also scan from a saved photo: open it in Photos and tap the code, or use the Code Scanner in Control Center.
Android (most phones)
- Open the Camera app (or Google Lens)
- Point it at the code and hold steady
- Tap the link that appears
On older phones, open Google Lens from the Google app or Assistant and point it at the code.
When a code won't scan
- Move closer, or steady your hand
- Add more light, or reduce glare on glossy prints
- Make sure the whole code (and its white margin) is in frame
- If it's on a screen, raise the brightness
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an app to scan a QR code?
No. On iPhone (iOS 11+) and most Android phones, the built-in camera scans QR codes automatically.
How do I scan a QR code from a screenshot?
On iPhone, open the image in Photos and tap the code (or use Live Text). On Android, open Google Lens and point it at the saved image or use the Lens option in Photos.
Why isn't my phone detecting the code?
Get closer, add light, remove glare, and make sure the full code with its margin is visible. On very old phones, install a QR scanner or use Google Lens.
Related generators
📖
How to Make a QR Code
How to make a QR code for free in three steps: pick what it links to, generate it, and download SVG or PNG.
📶
Wi-Fi QR Code
Create a free Wi-Fi QR code so guests join your network by scanning — no typing passwords.
🔗
URL / Website QR Code
Create a free QR code for any website link.