How to scan a QR code

On most recent phones, the camera is enough: no need to install an app, let alone one that asks for permissions or shows ads.

Unsure about a QR code? Upload a photo of it: our tool shows where it leads, without your phone opening the page.

Check a QR code

On iPhone

Open the Camera and point it at the code: a banner appears at the bottom, tap it to open the link.
You can also add the code scanner to Control Center to open it in one gesture.

On Android

Open the camera and point it at the code; on some models you must turn on QR code scanning in the camera settings.
Or use Google Lens, from the Google app or the camera.

On a computer

If the code is in an image or a screenshot, drop it into our tool: it reads the code and shows where it leads, without opening it.
In Chrome, the “Search with Google Lens” menu also reads codes shown on screen.

The code will not read?

Move back or closer: the whole code must fit on screen, sharp.
Clean the lens and avoid glare.
If the code is on a screen, raise its brightness.
If a page opens but shows an error or asks for payment, the link is the problem: see our “My QR code stopped working” guide.

Questions

Is scanning a QR code dangerous?

Scanning alone does nothing: what matters is the page it opens. Read the address shown before opening it, and beware of stickers placed over another code.

Do I need an internet connection?

To open a website, yes. A Wi-Fi or text code reads without a connection.