How to Scan a QR code on an iPhone, MAC, or Android Device

September 18, 2024 By Christine Margret No Comments 6 minutes

QR Codes are machine-readable codes that store different forms of information. For example, a QR Code can contain a picture, phone number, or link. They visually appear as black-and-white squares. Advanced phones may have a built-in QR code scanner in their camera app. Old phone users can install a QR Code scanner from their specific app store. Laptop and computer users can also scan QR Codes using their device’s web camera. In this guide, I will explain in detail how to scan a QR code on different devices.

Why Do You Need to Scan QR Codes?

You need to scan QR Codes because they are a quick and effective way to access data. Using a Smartphone camera, you can quickly process the information that is contained in a QR code’s pixels. You can scan a QR Code either with a smartphone camera, or smartphone app.

Can I Scan the QR Code without the app?

Yes. You can scan a QR code without an app on iPhones and advanced Android devices (Android 9 and later). Your phone’s camera app with scan the code without the need to download any additional app. In case, you are using an older version of Android phone, you will need to download a QR code scanner app.

How to Scan a QR Code on iPhone 

Scanning a QR code on your iPhone is quite straightforward. Here’s a detailed guide on how to accomplish this:

Steps to Scan QR Codes on an iPhone

1. Activate QR Scanning (if necessary):

• For iOS 12 and later, QR code scanning is automatically enabled.
• If using iOS 11 or if scanning isn’t working:
• Open the Settings app.
• Scroll down and tap on Camera.
• Toggle on Scan QR Codes (the switch should be green).

2. Launch the Camera App:

• Tap the Camera app icon on your home screen.
• Alternatively, open the Control Center and tap the camera icon.

3. Switch to the Rear Camera:

• Ensure the camera is using the rear-facing camera (the one on the back of your device).
• If it’s using the front-facing camera, tap the icon with two arching arrows to switch to the rear camera.

4. Align the QR Code with the Camera:

• Position your iPhone so the QR code appears within the frame.
• The camera will automatically scan the QR code.

5. Access the Scanned Link:

• A link will appear above the QR code once it’s scanned.
• Tap the link to be redirected to the associated webpage or action.

How to Scan a QR Code on Android 

Scanning QR codes on an Android device is quick, requiring minimal technical expertise. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Open Your Camera App:

• Locate and open the Camera app from your home screen or App Drawer.

2. Activate QR Code Scanning:

• Tap the settings icon (gear) in the top-left corner of the Camera app.
• Toggle on the option for Scan QR codes.
• For Pixel devices, tap the down-arrow at the top, then the gear icon, and enable GoogleLens suggestions.

3. Switch to the Rear Camera:

• Make sure the camera is set to the rear-facing lens.
• If it’s using the front-facing camera, tap the icon with two arrows to switch to the rear camera.

4. Position the QR Code:

• Hold the QR code in view of the camera.
• The app will automatically recognize and scan the QR code.

5. Follow the Pop-Up Link:

• Once scanned, a pop-up will appear with a link.
• Tap the link to take it to the associated content or webpage.

How to Scan a QR Code on Mac  

Mac computers do not have built-in QR code scanning functionality, so you’ll need to download an app. One free option is the QR Journal app, available on the Apple App Store. Follow these steps to scan a QR code on macOS:

As mentioned above, a Mac computer doesn’t support built-in scanning feature. So, you need to download the QR Code scanner app from the Apple App Store. Once, you install the app on your device, here’s how to scan a QR Code on your Mac device:

1. Open the QR Code scanning app.
2. Select “Scan” to start the process.
3. Place the QR code in front of your computer’s camera and await the response.
4. You can now click and use the link attached to access your code’s content.

How to Scan a QR Code From Screenshot

To Scan a QR Code from a screenshot on Android or iOS follow these instructions.

For iOS:

• Open the picture in your gallery
•  Tap on the live detection
• Wait for a popup to appear on the QR Code.

For Android:

• Open Google Lens, 
• Select the image with the QR Code
• Wait for a second 
• A pop-up containing the link will appear once the app detects the QR Code. 

Phone Camera Not Scanning QR Codes – Common Issues and Possible Solutions

In this section, I will highlight some common issues along with their possible solutions regarding why your phone camera is not scanning a QR Code:

• Issues with the Camera Lens: Scratches or damage to the lens can disrupt focus and hinder QR code scanning. It is better to carefully protect the screen to avoid such issues.
• Operating System Not Updated: An outdated OS may not support QR code scanning features. Ensure upgrading your system frequently.
• No Built-In Scanner: Older phones might lack a native QR code scanner; consider using a third-party app. Make sure to install a third-party using a trusted source.
• Low Camera Resolution: Cameras with lower resolution may have difficulty capturing QR codes clearly. 
• Inadequate Lighting Conditions: Poor lighting can make it hard for the camera to detect QR codes. Always try to adjust your lighting angles before scanning a QR code.
• Problems with the Scanning App: App-related issues, such as bugs or outdated versions, can affect QR code scanning. Updating or switching apps may help.
• Poor Quality of the QR Code: Blurry or damaged QR codes can be challenging for your camera to read. It is highly recommended to only scan QR codes with trusted sources, otherwise it might redirect you to malicious websites, or can install malware in your device.

Conclusion 

I hope that the guide above has helped you understand how to scan a QR Code. QR Codes are an excellent way to efficiently access the digital world without using web addresses, user names, or links. They enhance omnichannel experiences and create seamless connections in an increasingly interconnected world.

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