How to Scan a QR Code
On most phones you scan a QR code by opening the built-in Camera app and pointing it at the code — a link banner appears to tap. On iPhone (iOS 11 and newer) and modern Android this works with no extra app. You can also scan a QR code from a photo already saved on your device.
Scanning a QR code takes seconds and, on almost every modern phone, needs nothing more than the camera you already have. This guide covers scanning on iPhone and Android, and how to scan a code from a screenshot or saved photo when you can't point your camera at it.
How It Works
Open your camera
Launch the built-in Camera app on your phone — no special QR app is needed on most devices.
Point at the code
Frame the QR code in view and hold steady; the phone detects it automatically.
Tap the link
A banner or notification appears — tap it to open the link, WiFi prompt or contact card.
Scanning on iPhone
On iPhone with iOS 11 or newer, just open the Camera app and point it at the QR code. A notification banner slides down at the top — tap it to open the content. There is no separate app to install. If nothing appears, make sure QR code scanning is enabled in Settings › Camera.
Scanning on Android
Most modern Android phones scan QR codes straight from the Camera app — point it at the code and tap the link that appears. On some devices you may need to enable 'Scan QR codes' in the camera settings, or use Google Lens (built into the Camera or the Google app) to read the code.
Scanning a QR code from a screenshot or photo
If the code is already a picture on your phone, you don't need to print it. On iPhone, open the image in Photos and tap the Live Text / link that appears, or use Google Lens. On Android, open the photo in Google Photos and tap the Lens icon to detect the code. This is handy for codes received by message or saved from a website.
How to scan a QR code by device
The quickest way to scan on each platform.
| Device / source | How to scan |
|---|---|
| iPhone (iOS 11+) | Open Camera, point at code, tap the banner |
| Android (modern) | Open Camera or Google Lens, point, tap the link |
| Saved photo (iPhone) | Open in Photos and tap the link, or use Google Lens |
| Saved photo (Android) | Open in Google Photos and tap the Lens icon |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an app to scan a QR code?
Usually not. iPhone (iOS 11+) and most modern Android phones scan QR codes with the built-in camera. Only older phones need a separate scanner app.
Why won't my phone scan a QR code?
Common causes are low contrast, a code that's too small or far away, poor lighting, or a dirty camera lens. Move closer, improve lighting, and make sure QR scanning is enabled in your camera settings.
Can I scan a QR code from a screenshot?
Yes. Open the image in your photos app and tap the detected link, or use Google Lens to read the code from the picture — no camera needed.