Capture a snapshot of the QR code you’ve got through email, Messages, or any other platform to display it in the Photos app. If you’re using an iPhone, access the QR code image in the Photos app and press and hold on the QR code. For Android users, utilize Google Lens within the Google app or the Google search widget to choose the image.
Note: Both iPhone and Android devices have the capability to scan QR codes directly on the phone. If you receive a photo or PDF containing a QR code via email, messaging apps, or other chat platforms, capture a screenshot of it to have it appear in the Photos app. Afterward, employ the methods outlined below.
Method 1: Using The Photos App (iPhone)
- Access the photo or screenshot containing the QR code within the Photos app.
- Press and hold on the QR code, then select “Open in Safari.”
Here are some helpful pointers:
- If the above steps aren’t effective, tap the Live Text icon located at the bottom-right corner of the image. Then, tap on the QR code to scan it.
- Ensure that Live Text is enabled in your iPhone settings by navigating to Settings > General > Language & Region > Live Text.
- This feature is available on iOS 15 or later versions.
- Alternatively, you can utilize Google Lens through the Google app or Google Photos app to scan QR codes directly, eliminating the need for another device. The steps are akin to those detailed in the Android method below.
- If you’re inclined towards shortcuts, consider using the QR Reader from Images shortcut.
Method 2: Using Google Lense (Android)
Google Lens, a versatile service capable of finding similar images, scanning QR codes, extracting text from images, and more, can be accessed through the following methods:
- Via the Google App
Launch the pre-installed Google app and tap the Camera (Lens) icon located within the search bar. Grant any necessary permissions if prompted. Next, choose the photo containing the QR code from the images displayed at the bottom. Finally, tap on the QR code to open the linked content.
- Using Search Widget
On many phones, you’ll also discover the Lens icon within the Google search widget on the home screen. Just tap the Lens icon and pick the image containing the QR code. Then, tap the QR code to proceed. Learn how to add the Google search widget to the home screen on both iPhone and Android devices.
Method 3: Using QR Code Tile (Samsung Phones)
Besides Google Lens, Samsung phones feature a QR code quick tile, enabling users to scan QR codes directly. Here’s how to do it:
- Swipe down twice to access the Quick Settings panel. Next, tap on the “Scan QR code” tile.
- Tap the Gallery icon and choose the image containing the QR code.
- Drag the selection box to encompass the QR code area, then press the Done button to view the results.
Note: If the Scan QR code tile isn’t visible, it needs to be added first. To do so, edit the Quick Settings panel and drag the Scan QR code tile into the list of active tiles.
Method 4: Using Third-Party Apps (All Devices)
Usually, you won’t have to use third-party apps, as the built-in methods should suffice. However, if the need arises, consider these alternative apps on your phone. Download the app and choose the image.
- QR & Barcode Reader (Android)
- QR Code Reader & QR Scanner (iOS)
- webqr.com (Online)