How to Scan a QR Code on iPhone (Camera, Control Center and Screenshots)
Quick answer
To scan a QR code on an iPhone, open the Camera app and point it at the code. When a yellow link appears on screen, tap it. You can also open Control Center and tap Scan Code. No extra app is needed.
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Every iPhone running iOS 11 or later can read QR codes with the built in Camera app. This guide covers the Camera method, the Scan Code control, how to scan a QR code that is already on your screen, and what to do when your iPhone will not pick up a code.
How to scan a QR code with the iPhone Camera
- Open the Camera app from the Home Screen, Lock Screen or Control Center.
- Use the rear camera in Photo mode.
- Hold the iPhone so the whole QR code fits on screen.
- Wait for a yellow QR code button or link to appear.
- Tap it to open the website, app or other content.
These steps follow Apple’s guide to scanning QR codes.
Use the Scan Code button in Control Center
The Scan Code control opens a scanner made just for codes. To use it:
- Open Control Center. On iPhones with Face ID, swipe down from the top right corner. On iPhones with a Home button, swipe up from the bottom edge.
- Tap Scan Code.
- Point the iPhone at the QR code and tap the link that appears.
How to add Scan Code to Control Center
- Open Control Center.
- Touch and hold an empty area of the screen.
- Tap Add a Control.
- Find and tap Scan Code.
- Tap anywhere to go back to Control Center.
On older versions of iOS, add it from Settings, then Control Center, then tap the plus button next to Code Scanner.
How to scan a QR code on your iPhone screen
You cannot point the camera at its own screen, so use a photo or screenshot instead:
- Take a screenshot of the QR code, or save the image.
- Open it in the Photos app.
- Touch and hold the QR code.
- Tap the link that appears to open it.
This uses the Live Text and Visual Look Up features in recent versions of iOS. If nothing appears, update your iPhone or use the Google app, which has a Lens button that can read codes in photos.
iPhone not scanning a QR code? Try these fixes
| Problem | What to try |
|---|---|
| Nothing happens in Camera | Check that the whole code is in view and you are using the rear camera in Photo mode. In Settings, then Camera, make sure Scan QR Codes is on if your iPhone shows that switch. |
| The code will not focus | Move a little further away, then slowly closer. Wipe the camera lens. |
| The scan works in daylight but not indoors | Turn on more light, or try Scan Code in Control Center, which has a flashlight button. |
| The code is damaged, tiny or low contrast | Ask for a clearer copy. Codes need dark marks on a light background and a clear margin around them. |
| The link opens an error page | The code may point to an old or expired link. Read do QR codes expire to see why this happens. |
Stay safe when you scan QR codes
A QR code is just a link you cannot read until you scan it. Before you tap, look at the web address your iPhone shows. Be careful with codes stuck on parking meters, sent in unexpected texts or emails, or placed over another code. Do not enter passwords or card details on a page you reached from a code unless you trust where it came from.
Make your own QR code
Need a code for a menu, flyer or business card? Our QR code generator makes static codes that never expire. Scan your new code with your iPhone before you print it to make sure it works.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an app to scan QR codes on iPhone?
No. The Camera app reads QR codes on iOS 11 and later, and the Scan Code control in Control Center does the same.
Why is my iPhone camera not scanning QR codes?
The code may not be fully in view, too small, damaged or in poor light. Also check that Scan QR Codes is on in Settings, then Camera, if your iPhone shows that option.
How do I scan a QR code from a screenshot on iPhone?
Open the screenshot in Photos, touch and hold the QR code, then tap the link that appears.
Can I scan a QR code with the front camera?
The rear camera works best. Switch back to the rear camera in Photo mode if the scan does not start.
Is it safe to scan any QR code?
Not always. Check the web address before you open it and avoid entering personal or payment details on pages from codes you do not trust.
