How to Scan a QR Code on Android

Android camera apps have a built-in QR reader to make the process very simple

By
Molly McLaughlin
Molly McLaughlin
Molly McLaughlin
Senior Editor & Content Strategist
    Molly K. McLaughlin has been a technology editor and writer for over a dozen years. She runs product reviews for Lifewire, overseeing the process from hands-on testing to publishing.
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    Updated on July 20, 2023
    Reviewed by
    Michael Barton Heine Jr
    Michael Heine headshot
    Reviewed by Michael Barton Heine Jr
      Michael Heine is a CompTIA-certified writer, editor, and Network Engineer with 25+ years' experience working in the television, defense, ISP, telecommunications, and education industries.
      lifewire's editorial guidelines

      What to Know

      • Android 8 or later: Launch the Camera app, frame the QR code, and tap the notification.
      • On older Android devices, you'll need to download a third-party app, such as QR Code Reader.

      These days, we can't even order a meal at a restaurant without using our phones to scan a QR code. Since it took us a few seconds to figure it out, we wanted to share with you how to do it so you don't go hungry like we almost did.

      How to Scan a QR Code With an Android Phone

      The good news is that it's incredibly easy to scan these codes with your phone. Starting with Android 8, the Camera app includes a built-in QR reader.

      All you need to do is open your camera app, point the camera at the QR code, and tap the pop-up notification.

      That will take you to the website or other information the QR code holds, such as a menu or instructions of some sort.

      If your camera doesn't detect the QR code, try pressing and holding the code.

      The Camera app and QR code pop-up on Android

      How to Scan a QR Code With Android 7 and Earlier

      Older Androids don't have a built-in QR code reader, so you'll need to download a third-party app and follow its instructions. For example, the QR Code Reader can scan QR codes, including Wi-Fi QR codes, which allows users to connect to a Wi-Fi hotspot without inputting a password.

      When you want to scan a QR code, launch the app and point your smartphone at it; you'll then either see the code's information or get a prompt to open a URL.

      Android QR code reader
      Android screenshot

      All the Ways to Use QR Codes

      When you scan a QR code, it might open a link to a website or social media account, display a YouTube video, show a coupon, or contact details.

      Advertising is probably the most common use of QR codes. Brands can add a QR code to a billboard or magazine, for example, that sends users to its website or a coupon or landing page. For the user, this takes away the hassle of typing in a long URL, or jotting it down on paper. The advertiser benefits from real-time results in which the user immediately visits their website rather than waiting until they get home, or worse, forgetting about it altogether.

      QR code at a store
      iStock

      Another use is through a virtual store, in which there's a large touch screen in a public place, such as a subway station or plaza. Shoppers can scan items with their smartphones and get the items delivered at a chosen time and location. Each piece has a unique QR code and works with a mobile app that stores payment and shipping information.

      QR codes are often used to transfer cryptocurrency, including Bitcoin. Some cemeteries around the world have started adding QR codes to tombstones to make it easier for visitors to locate the gravesite.

      It's a good practice to only scan QR codes from companies that you trust because of security concerns. A hacker could link a QR code to a malicious website that looks legit but instead phishes your personal information when you try to log in. Also, be sure to check the URL before inputting your credentials.

      FAQ

      • Why won't my phone scan QR codes?

        You may need to increase your screen's brightness. Make sure you're holding the camera upright and that the camera lens doesn't have any smudges on it. If your camera app won't scan the code, try a third-party app.

      • How do I scan QR codes on my Chromebook?

        You can use the Chromebook Camera app to scan QR codes and documents. Open the camera and select Scan, then hold the QR code up to the lens. The app should automatically detect it.

      • How do I scan a QR code on my Samsung?

        To scan a QR code on a Samsung, open Camera and select Settings gear, then turn on Scan QR codes and point the camera at the QR code. On older devices, open Camera and select Bixby Vision > swipe left to QR Code scanner. If you have a photo or screenshot of a QR code, use the Samsung Internet app's built-in QR scanner.

      • How do I make a QR code on iPhone or Android?

        Use an app like BarCode Generator for Android or QR Code Reader Barcode Maker for iPhone to make your own QR codes. You can use a website like Barcodes.

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