How To Scan a QR Code (iOS & Android)

These days QR codes are everywhere and are incredibly easy to use. The barcode looking squares contain data which allows you to access websites by simply scanning them with your mobile device. Here is how to scan a QR code with your iOS and Android devices.

On iOS:

To scan a QR code on your iOS device, all you have to do is point your camera towards the QR code and tap the notification to open the link you are looking for.

Step 1: Open the Camera app

The camera app can be accessed by simply swiping left on your iPhone lock screen, from your home screen and from the control center.

Step 2: Select the rear-facing camera.

Point your camera towards the QR code you want to scan, making sure it is in focus and the whole QR code is visible.

Step 3: Tap on the notification to open the link.

Once you correctly scan the QR code, a pop-up notification will come up which you have to click on in order to be directed to the link associated with the QR code.

NOTE: If you don’t receive a pop-up notification, you can go to Settings > Camera > Scan QR Codes. This will allow you to enable the Scan QR Codes feature on your iOS device.

On Android:

On Android 8 or later you can scan a QR code by simply pressing on your home button to access the camera app, point the camera towards the QR code and wait for the notification to appear which will give you access to the link.

Step 1: Press and hold on the home button of the device.

Step 2: Tap on the lens and point the camera towards the QR code you want to scan.

The lens can be found on the left side on the bottom of your phone screen.

NOTE: If it is your first time using this feature a notification will come up, simply click allow, in order to continue scanning.

Step 3: Tap on the magnifying glass icon to scan.

This icon can be found on the bottom of your phone screen.

Step 4: Tap on the notification that appears and you will be directed to the link.

After you have tapped on the notification, you will be directed to the link associated with the QR code.

NOTE: Only Android 8 or later support QR scanning. Make sure you check if your android device is suitable. If your device does not support QR scanning, you can download a QR scanning app and follow step 2 and 4.