How to Scan a QR Code with iPhone & Android: a Step-by-Step Guide

Today, the ubiquitous black pixelated square - QR code can be spotted adorning everything from product labels to bags, integrating into our daily existence. The versatility of these QR codes knows no bounds. By swiftly scanning these codes with your smartphone, you can easily access web pages, download apps, establish WiFi connections, and much more.

Even within the realms of dining and shopping, QR codes have become a staple, acting as convenient shortcuts for menus and ordering systems, which means you don’t need to touch anything – just scan with your mobile phone to order, shop and pay.

If you don't know how to scan a QR code with your phone, don't worry. This blog will show you a step-by-step guide to quickly understand what a QR code is, how to scan it, and even, we'll provide tips for creating your own QR codes.

Let's delve deep into this digital world, simplifying the intricacies and enhancing your technological encounters.

What is a QR Code and What is it Used for?

A QR code is like a secret message that your phone can understand. It looks like a square full of tiny black and white squares. Each square holds a special code that has information inside, like a website link, a phone number, or even a message.

When you use your phone's camera to scan the QR code, it quickly reads the special code and shows you what's inside. It's like magic. You can instantly visit a website, save someone's contact info, or do other cool stuff, all by scanning these special codes. They're like shortcuts to help your phone understand and do things faster and easier!

How to Scan a QR Code on iPhone with the Camera App?

It is super easy to scan a QR code in an iphone device. Simply open the camera app and point your phone at the QR code. Make sure the QR code is within the box on the screen, then tap the yellow banner that pops up or the yellow QR code icon in the lower right corner.

To ensure that you can perform the scanning correctly, please first check whether you have enabled the feature of scanning QR codes.

You can do this by going to your settings > Camera, and tapping the slider next to "Scan QR codes." When the button is green, it's done.

Here's how to scan a QR code on your screen:

1. Open the Camera app on your iPhone.

You can open the Camera app in different ways: directly from its location, swipe left from the lock screen, or swipe down on the home screen and type "camera" in the search bar at the top.

2. Point your iPhone at the QR code for scanning.

Ensure the entire QR code is visible within your camera's view. Once you scan the QR code, a pop-up banner will appear, and a yellow QR code icon will show up in the lower right corner.

( If the pop-up banner or QR code icon isn't visible, you can try an alternative method. Take a photo of the QR code and access it in the Photos app. Then, click on the Live Text icon resembling three lines within a box found in the lower-right corner. Subsequently, tap the QR code and the pop-up banner should emerge.）

3. Tap the yellow pop-up banner or QR code icon.

This action will instantly take you to a website, open an app, or perform another action. (Internet connection is required for this step.)

How to Scan a QR Code on Android with the Camera App?

The steps to scan a QR code with an Android device are similar to scanning in an iPhone. You can perform actions through your camera app.

Note: Not all Android models support scanning QR codes, if your phone is running Android 9 or later, you can scan a QR code with it.

Here's how to scan a QR code from a picture:

1. Open the Camera.

2. Choose the back camera and set it to either Photo or Camera mode.

3. Position the QR code you wish to scan in the middle of the screen and keep your phone steady for a few seconds.

4. Tap on the pop-up banner that appears to open it.

How to Scan a QR Code on Android Using Google Lens?

If your camera app doesn't support scanning QR codes, then you can try another way, which is to use Goolge Lens.

Google's advanced image-recognition technology has the ability to scan QR codes. This feature is integrated into Google Assistant, Google Photos, and the Google app on the majority of Android phones. Alternatively, you have the option to freely install the Google Lens app.

Here's how to use the google QR code scanner:

1. Tap on the colored lens icon within Google Assistant or launch the Google Lens app.

2. Choose the Search mode.

3. Point your phone at the QR code for scanning.

4. Click on the pop-up banner that appears to open the corresponding content.

Create Your Own QR Code with Fotor's QR Code Generator

Now you know the magic of a QR code and how to scan it with your smartphone. Time to create and design your own QR code to share your web pages, social media profiles and contact information.

Fotor's QR code generator enables you to easily create various types of QR codes, including link QR codes, social media QR codes, Google form QR codes, etc., enabling you to make packaged data, URLs and contact information, while reflecting your personal style.

With Fotor's QR code generator, you can choose from a variety of designs, logos, and colors, customizing your QR codes to match your branding, event or personal style.

Whether you're a business professional looking to enhance your marketing strategy, or an individual looking for clever ways to share contact information, Fotor ensures a user-friendly experience for everyone.

You can add the generated QR code to your business card to make a scannable QR code business card, print your social media QR code on flyers and posters to get a wider audience. Simplify information sharing and expand your online presence with unique QR codes.

Conclusion

We've provided comprehensive guide into deciphering the significance of a QR code, along with step-by-step guide on how to scan a QR code on iPhone and Android. Additionally, we've introduced a user-friendly tool that empowers you to craft cutom QR codes tailored to your needs. We trust that these valuable tips will prove instrumental in enhancing your QR code experience. Thank you for reading!