How to scan a QR code on a phone or computer

iPhone and iPad: begin with Camera or Code Scanner

Open the rear Camera in a normal photo view and frame the complete square with its border. Hold steady while it focuses, then inspect the link or action offered. Apple also documents Code Scanner in Control Centre. Menus and supported actions vary with software versions; use Apple’s current instructions if the expected control is missing.

If no result appears, change distance gently, reduce reflections and check camera QR settings for your version. Do not repeatedly tap the shutter: taking a photograph is different from accepting a recognised action.

Android: follow the phone maker’s supported scanning method

Try the built-in Camera. On Pixel, Google documents camera scan suggestions and a QR scanner in Quick Settings. Other manufacturers place these features differently; check the device’s camera settings or help rather than assuming every Android menu is identical. Google’s Pixel scanning guide shows its supported routes.

A phone may recognise a web URL but handle contact cards, text or Wi-Fi differently. If the image is detected but the action is absent, try a compatible trusted reader or use the visible fallback information supplied with the code.

A code saved on the same device

For a screenshot or received photo, use an image-reading feature available on that device, such as Lens through supported Google apps, or QR recognition in a supported photo viewer. Availability varies: do not assume long-pressing every image always exposes a link.

Use the original, reasonably sharp image rather than a tiny messaging thumbnail. Keep all corners and the clear border visible. For a private invitation, Wi-Fi credential or sign-in image, check the reader’s processing and upload practices before using a cloud image-search service. Google’s image-search instructions include uploading images and searching website images; these are not a promise of local-only processing.

Windows and Mac: choose a reader available in your setup

Microsoft documents a barcode mode in the Windows Camera app. If that mode is available, frame a printed code or another screen and review the detected result. A webcam cannot directly photograph an image displayed on its own screen; use a saved-image reader for that case. See Microsoft’s Camera guide.

On a Mac, scanning the computer’s screen with a separate phone is often convenient. For a saved image, choose a trusted image reader compatible with your system and review its data handling. This guide does not claim that every browser or operating system has a built-in QR menu.

Separate recognition from the next action

• No outline, link or decoded text: check focus, lighting, image size, clipping and supported reader features.
• A URL appears but fails to load: check connectivity and the destination; recognition has already happened.
• Wi-Fi details appear but joining fails: compare credentials, security type and router permissions.
• An email or SMS action does not open a draft: check compatible apps and accounts. Reading the data does not supply those services.

Review before continuing

Look for a substituted sticker or an unexpected request, and inspect the destination rather than relying on its logo or an HTTPS icon. If the code asks for an unexpected payment, sign-in or download, reach the organisation through a known route. Keep software updated; avoid an absolute claim that scanning is harmless on every device. The FTC explains QR-link scams.

Common questions