How to Scan a QR Code on Any Phone (iPhone & Android)

QR codes are everywhere - on menus, posters, packaging, and payment terminals. The good news is that almost every modern phone can scan one in seconds without installing a single app. In this guide you will learn exactly how to scan a QR code on iPhone and Android, how to scan a code from a saved photo or screenshot, and what to do when a code refuses to scan.

How to Scan a QR Code on iPhone

Every iPhone running iOS 11 or later can scan QR codes straight from the built-in Camera app:

1. Open the Camera app.
2. Point the rear camera at the QR code so it sits inside the frame.
3. Wait a moment for a yellow notification banner to appear.
4. Tap the banner to open the link, contact, or WiFi prompt.

If nothing appears, go to Settings → Camera and make sure 'Scan QR Codes' is turned on. You can also use the Code Scanner in Control Center for a faster, distraction-free scan.

How to Scan a QR Code on Android

Most Android phones (Android 9 and later) scan QR codes from the default camera too:

1. Open the Camera app.
2. Aim it at the QR code and hold steady.
3. Tap the link or pop-up that appears.

If your camera does not detect codes, open Google Lens (built into the Google app, Photos, or the Assistant) and point it at the code. You can also swipe down to Quick Settings and look for a 'QR code scanner' tile.

How to Scan a QR Code From a Photo or Screenshot

Sometimes the QR code is already on your screen - in an email, a website, or a screenshot a friend sent you. You cannot point your camera at your own screen, so use these methods instead:

• iPhone: open the image in Photos, then tap the Live Text / Lens icon, or long-press the code and choose 'Open Link'.
• Android: open the picture in Google Photos and tap the Lens icon to detect the code.
• Any device: upload the image to an online QR code reader like the MintyQR scanner to decode it in your browser.

Why Won't My QR Code Scan?

If a code won't scan, it is almost always one of these issues:

• Too small or printed at low resolution - move closer or ask for a larger version
• Poor contrast, glare, or a damaged surface
• Dirty camera lens or shaky hands
• An expired or broken link behind the code

Frequently Asked Questions

That's all there is to it - your phone's camera is usually all you need. And when you want to create your own scannable codes, you can generate one free with MintyQR in seconds.