Scan a QR code on iPhone or Android
No app needed: most phone cameras read QR codes. Here’s where to find the right button, and what to check before opening the link.
How do I scan a QR code with an iPhone?
Open the Camera app, point it at the code and wait a second: a banner appears with the address or suggested action. Tap it to open.
You can also add “Code Scanner” to Control Centre in Settings: handy when the camera hesitates.
How do I scan a QR code with Android?
On most recent Android phones the camera reads QR codes directly; otherwise use Google Lens (in the Google app or the camera) or the scan shortcut in quick settings.
Menus vary by brand: if nothing happens, look for a “Scan QR codes” option in the camera settings.
What should I check before opening the link?
The address shown: it should match what you expect (the restaurant’s, council’s or shop’s site). A strange address, a misspelt name or a code stuck over another one should ring alarm bells.
Never enter a password or card number on a page opened from a code you found in the street. Scams are covered in QR code scams (quishing).
Why won’t my phone read the code?
Usually: too close or too far, low light, glare, a dirty lens, or a code that’s too small or low-contrast. Step back a little, wipe the lens, change the angle.
If it’s your own code causing trouble, read my QR code isn’t working and readable coloured QR codes.
Can I scan a code shown on my own screen?
Yes, without a second phone: take a screenshot, then open it in the phone’s image recognition tool — Google Lens on Android, the Photos app on recent iPhones. Depending on the model, it detects the code and offers the link.
Handy for a Wi-Fi code sent by message; to make one yourself, use the Wi-Fi generator.
How do I scan a Wi-Fi code or a business card?
The same way: the camera recognises the format and offers the right action — “Join network” for Wi-Fi or “Add to contacts” for a vCard. No web page opens.
These codes are static and go through no server; they read fine even without an internet connection.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an app to scan a QR code?
No, the camera on iPhones and most Android phones is enough. Avoid unknown ad-heavy scanner apps.
Is scanning a QR code dangerous?
Scanning itself isn’t; the page it opens might be. Check the address before opening.
Does the code’s owner know who I am?
With a Scanotte code, they only see the date, device type, system and approximate country; never your IP address, and no cookie is set.
Can an old phone scan?
Often through a scanner app or Google Lens. Very old models may need a dedicated app.