How to scan a QR code on iPhone, Android and computer

4 min read · Updated 18 October 2026

Almost every phone made since 2018 can read QR codes with its built-in camera. Here's how, plus what to try when a code won't scan.

On an iPhone or iPad

1. Open the Camera app. Use the rear camera.
2. Point it at the code. Hold steady so the whole code is on screen. You don't need to press the shutter.
3. Tap the banner. A yellow link or prompt appears. Check the address, then tap to open it.

You can also add the Code Scanner to Control Center, or scan a code in a photo or screenshot by touching and holding it.

On Android

• Open the Camera app and point it at the code. On most phones a link appears on screen.
• If nothing happens, open Google Lens, or tap the Lens icon in the camera or the Google search bar.
• For a code in a screenshot, open it in Google Photos and tap Lens.

On a computer

• Mac: the easiest way is your phone. Recent versions of macOS can also detect codes in images in Photos and Preview with Live Text.
• Windows: the Camera app's Barcode mode reads QR codes from a webcam.
• Chrome and Edge: right-click an image and search it with Google Lens.

If a code won't scan

• Move closer, or further away for big codes.
• Wipe the camera lens.
• Turn on a light or avoid glare on glossy surfaces.
• Make sure the whole code, including its margin, is in view.
• Try Google Lens or another scanner app.
• If it still fails, the code may be damaged or badly printed. Tell the owner.