How to scan a QR code on iPhone and Android (no app needed)

Got a QR code on an invoice, a poster or packaging and not sure how to scan it? Good news: you do not need a special app — your phone camera is enough. Here is how it works on iPhone and Android.

How to scan a QR code on iPhone

1. Open the Camera app (the built-in one).
2. Point the camera at the QR code, from about 10–20 cm away.
3. Hold the phone steady for 1–2 seconds — a notification appears at the top.
4. Tap the notification — the link opens in Safari or the action is performed (WiFi, contact, etc.).

Works on any iPhone with iOS 11 or newer (from 2017 onwards). You do not need to press the shutter button.

How to scan a QR code on Android

1. Open the Camera app.
2. Point the camera at the code — on most phones a link or action appears automatically.
3. Tap the link or notification.

On Samsung, the feature is on by default in Camera. On Google Pixel, the same — or you can use Google Lens (long-press the Home button or use the widget on the home screen). On other brands (Xiaomi, Huawei, OnePlus), check in camera settings that "Scan QR codes" is turned on.

Tips for a successful scan

• Enough light — the camera needs visible contrast between the code modules and the background;
• Right distance — too close and the code falls outside the frame, too far and it is not clear enough;
• Code big enough — a code under 2 cm is hard to scan on printed materials;
• Steady phone — hold the phone still for 1–2 seconds so the camera can focus.

What happens when you scan

It depends on what the code contains:

• Link (URL) — the page opens in the browser;
• WiFi — the phone connects to the network automatically;
• vCard — the contact is saved to the address book;
• SEPA payment — the banking app opens with the details pre-filled;
• WhatsApp — a conversation opens with the preset number.

Is it safe to scan a QR code?

Yes. A QR code is just an information container — it cannot install anything on your phone. However, always check the URL shown before tapping, especially on codes in public places. Read more about QR code safety.

Create your own QR code

Now that you know how to scan, you can create your own QR code for free, with no account, using the getQR generator.