How to scan a QR code on your phone
The built-in camera is almost always enough. iPhone, Android, codes on your own screen and what to do when scanning fails.
On iPhone
- Open the Camera app — the rear camera, not the selfie one.
- Point it at the code so the whole code fits in the frame.
- A yellow banner with the link or action appears — tap it.
No banner? Check Settings → Camera → Scan QR Codes. You can also add the Code Scanner to Control Centre.
On Android
- Open the camera and point it at the code — on most phones with Android 9–10 and later the link appears right away.
- If the camera ignores it, open Google Lens or tap the Lens icon in the camera.
- Samsung, Xiaomi and other brands often have a QR scanner in the quick settings panel.
If the code is on your own screen
You cannot point the camera at its own screen, so take a screenshot. On iPhone open it in Photos and tap the code. On Android open it in Google Photos and tap Lens.
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| Code in a message or on a website | Screenshot → recognise it in the gallery |
| Code on a computer monitor | Scan it with your phone camera |
| Code in a PDF | Zoom in and scan from the screen |
Why the phone does not see the code
- Too close: move back until the code fills about half the frame.
- Glare on a glossy surface: tilt the phone or change the angle.
- Low light: turn on the torch in the camera app.
- The code is damaged or printed too light — only a new code will help.
Before tapping, read the address in the banner. If the domain looks odd or does not match what is written next to the code, do not open it.
FAQ
Do I need an app to scan QR codes?
Usually not: iPhones with iOS 11+ and modern Android phones scan with the built-in camera.
Do I need internet to scan a code?
Not to read it. Internet is only needed if the code contains a website link.
Read next
QR code not scanning: 10 causesWhen a code fails, the print or the design is almost always to blame, not the phone. Work through the list from most to least common.
QR code safety: how to avoid scamsA QR code itself is harmless — it is just a link. The danger is where it leads. The common schemes and simple rules to check.