How to Scan QR Codes on Any Device
You don't need a separate app. Scanning is built into your phone's camera — here's how to use it.
Whether you're viewing a restaurant menu, connecting to WiFi, or saving a contact from a vCard, the process is the same: your phone's built-in camera handles it. Here's how, depending on your device.
On iPhone and iPad (iOS)
Apple added native QR scanning to the Camera app in iOS 11 (2017). If your iPhone is from the last several years, you already have it.
Open the Camera app
From your home screen, lock screen, or Control Center.
Use the rear camera in standard photo mode
Make sure you're in the default Photo mode, not video or portrait.
Point it at the code
The code doesn't need to fill the screen — just make sure it's fully visible and in focus.
Tap the yellow banner that appears
This performs the action: opens a link, saves a contact, or joins a WiFi network.
If nothing happens on iOS
On Android
Android's QR support varies slightly by manufacturer, but there are two reliable methods.
Native camera app (Samsung, Pixel, OnePlus, most others)
Android 9 and later includes QR scanning in the default camera app.
Open your camera app
Point it at the QR code and hold steady
Wait a moment for the camera to recognise the pattern.
Tap the pop-up or icon that appears
Follow the link or perform the action.
Google Lens (fallback if the camera doesn't pick it up)
- Open the Google Search app.
- Tap the camera icon on the right side of the search bar.
- Point the camera at the QR code and tap the highlighted link.
Scanning a QR code from an image in your gallery
If someone sends you a screenshot with a QR code in it, you don't need to print it out to scan it.
- On iOS: Open the image in Photos. Long-press on the QR code itself — a menu appears with "Open Link" or "Copy Link."
- On Android: Open the image in Google Photos. Tap the "Lens" icon at the bottom. Google Lens will identify the QR code and show a clickable link.
Skip the third-party scanner apps
If you search "QR Scanner" in the App Store or Play Store, hundreds of results come up. Don't bother. Most of them are loaded with ads, some charge subscriptions, and a few request unnecessary permissions to access your location and camera data continuously.
Use your native camera