An iPhone can scan most QR codes with the built-in Camera app, so you usually do not need a separate QR scanner. The code can open a website, connect to a service, display information, or trigger another supported action.
Scan a QR code with Camera
- Open the Camera app.
- Use the rear camera and point it at the QR code.
- Keep the entire code visible and hold the phone steady for a moment.
- When a banner or link appears, tap it to open the detected result.
You do not normally need to take a picture. The Camera app recognizes the code while it is in the viewfinder.
Use the Code Scanner control
iPhone also provides a Code Scanner that can be available from Control Center. This is useful when you want a dedicated scanning view. If you do not see it, edit Control Center and add the scanner control if your iOS version provides that option.
Scan a QR code shown on another screen
Increase the brightness of the other display and make sure the full code is visible. Reflections, a cracked screen, low contrast, or a code that is too small can make recognition harder.
If the QR code is in an image already stored on your iPhone, Photos may recognize supported links or text in the image. The available action depends on the content and iOS version.
Check a QR destination before trusting it
A QR code can direct you to a malicious website just as a typed link can. Look at the destination preview before opening it, especially for codes on unexpected stickers, payment signs, parking meters, or unsolicited messages.
Do not enter passwords, payment details, or verification codes merely because a QR code sent you to a page that looks familiar.
If the iPhone will not scan the code
Clean the camera lens, improve the lighting, move slightly closer or farther away, and make sure the code is not cropped. Restart Camera if recognition has stopped working. A damaged or poorly printed QR code may simply be unreadable.
QR codes can contain more than website links
A code can hold contact details, Wi-Fi information, payment instructions, app links, or other data. Read the prompt before accepting an action. If a code unexpectedly asks you to install software, sign in, send money, or change a security setting, stop and verify the source.
Scanning in dim light
The camera needs a reasonably clear view of the pattern. Avoid strong glare on glossy paper, flatten wrinkled codes, and hold the phone parallel to the surface. You can use the flashlight when the scanner interface provides it, but changing the angle is often more effective when glare is the problem.
Matthew Roberts created this site to help his friends and family with questions that they might have about how to change the settings on their iPhones. It now serves as an archive of iPhone how-to guides to help anyone that stumbles upon this website.