If you are familiar with the basics of scanning QR codes on an iPhone, iPad or other iOS device, it is easy to scan them. We’ll show you how to scan QR codes on your Apple products.
Although QR codes weren’t as widely used as people expected, many shops, websites, and locations still use them to store or communicate information. QR codes are used to store contact information, coupon codes, website links and ticket websites.
It is very easy to scan QR codes from your iPhone and iPad. Apple has built a QR code reader into its camera, so scanning anything is easy.
It can be difficult to figure out what you need to do or get your iOS device to identify what you are looking at. This is why we have created this guide to scanning a QR code using an iPhone.
This function has been working since iOS 11 and was added as an extra feature. It has also been updated a few times with each new version of Apple’s OS.
How can I scan a QR code with my iPhone?
- Open the camera app for your iPhone or iPad
- Make sure the QR code is visible by holding the camera.
- Your device will recognize your code and send you a notification
- To be taken to your destination QR code, tap the notification
How to scan a QR code with iPhone or iPad![]()
Open the camera app on your iPhone/iPad. It’s usually located in the bottom right corner on your device’s home page. However, on iPads, it’s the first page. If you move it around, it will be elsewhere.
Hold the device’s camera towards the QR code. You don’t need to press the shutter button. Your iOS device will recognize the QR code automatically and display an on-screen notification. This will not work if you don’t have mobile signal.
To be taken to the QR code destination, tap the notification. This could be a website or app. You can now change your default browser on the iPhone or iPad. This is possible thanks to an iOS relaxation. When scanning, you will see a notification to switch to Safari or Chrome.
You’re done! In just a few simple steps you can scan a QR code from your iPad or iPhone.
Your iPhone’s secret code scanner
Did you know there is a secret code scanner built into your iPhone? It isn’t an app (well, it, but it’s not in your app list), but it can be found by Spot light.
The camera app does the same, but it has a larger viewfinder.
Simply swipe down from your home screen to open the search bar at top of your iPhone. Type in “Code Scanner” or head to Settings, then Control Center and add it to your list.
You can now access it by simply swiping from the top-right-hand side your screen.
Wallet app scans QR codes on iPhones and iPads
The Wallet app for iPhone and i do also has a QR reader. Open the app and click the plus button in the top right corner of the section “Passes”. Next, tap on Scan Code for a Pass.
You can scan QR codes here for coupons, boarding passes and tickets. However, only the items that Wallet considers “passes” are allowed. You’ll receive an error message if you try to scan another QR code.
You can also visit the App Store to find free QR code readers.
