How to scan a QR code on Android and iPhone
There are two main ways to scan QR codes on Android and iPhone, depending on the phone’s operating system:
Using the Built-in Camera App (Android 8.0 and above, iPhone)
- Open the Camera App: Locate and launch the pre-installed Camera app on your device.
- Point and Focus: Direct your phone’s camera towards the QR code, ensuring it’s centered and in clear focus within the viewfinder.
- Automatic Detection (iPhone) or Banner Tap (Android):
- iPhone: For iPhones, the phone will automatically detect the QR code. A notification will appear on your screen, usually at the top or bottom.
- Android 8.0 and above: A yellow banner might show up on your screen highlighting the detected QR code.
- Open the Link/Information: Tap on the notification (iPhone) or the banner (Android) to launch the link or view the information encoded within the QR code.
Using a Third-Party QR Code Scanner App (Android below 8.0)
If your Android phone runs an operating system older than Android 8.0, it likely won’t have built-in QR code scanning capabilities. Here’s what to do:
- Download a Scanner App: Visit the Google Play Store and search for “QR code scanner.” Choose a reputable app with good reviews.
- Install and Launch: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the downloaded app. Once installed, open the app.
- Grant Permissions (if needed): The app might request permission to access your camera. Grant the necessary permissions to proceed.
- Scan the QR Code: Point your phone’s camera at the QR code, similar to using the built-in camera app.
- Open the Link/Information: The app should decode the QR code and display the information or prompt you to open a linked website.
General Tips:
- Lighting and Focus: Ensure the QR code is well-lit and in focus for smooth scanning. A slightly dimmed screen might help with glare in bright environments.
- App Reputation (Android): When using a third-party scanner app on Android, choose a trusted app from a reputable developer with good reviews.