How to scan a QR code on iPhone
iPhone has had native QR code scanning built into the Camera app since iOS 11 (2017). You don't need any third-party app.
- Open the Camera app. The standard rear camera in Photo or Video mode both work. Portrait mode also works.
- Point the camera at the QR code. Hold it roughly 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) from the code. You don't need to fill the frame - the camera can read a small code in the corner of the viewfinder.
- Wait for the yellow banner. A notification banner drops down from the top of the screen (or pops up at the bottom on older iOS). It shows the URL or action the QR code contains.
- Tap the banner to open it. For URLs, this opens Safari. For WiFi codes, iOS offers to join the network. For contact cards, it prompts to save the contact.
You don't need to tap a shutter button. Just point and wait - the detection is automatic.
Scan from Control Center (faster shortcut)
If you use QR scanning frequently, add the Code Scanner to Control Center for one-swipe access:
- Open Settings → Control Center.
- Scroll down and tap the + next to "Code Scanner."
- From now on, swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center and tap the QR icon (looks like a small grid).
The Control Center scanner has a flashlight toggle, which helps with codes in dark environments. The Camera app does not have this shortcut.
Scan a QR code from a screenshot or photo
If you have a QR code saved as an image in your Photos library, you don't need to print it and scan the paper:
- Open the image in the Photos app.
- Look for the Live Text button (lines of text icon) in the bottom-right corner, or just tap on the QR code in the image.
- On iOS 16 and later, a Visual Look Up button appears. Tap Open in Safari or the relevant action.
Alternatively, open the Camera app and point it at your screen displaying the QR code - it will scan a QR from another screen just like a printed one.
Troubleshooting: QR code not scanning on iPhone
1. QR code scanning is turned off in Settings
Go to Settings → Camera and make sure Scan QR Codes is toggled on. This is on by default but can be disabled accidentally.
2. The code is too small or too far away
Move closer. A QR code needs to be at minimum 2.5 cm (1 inch) across in the camera frame for reliable detection. If the code is very small on a label or packaging, zoom in using pinch-to-zoom in the Camera app.
3. Poor lighting
Low contrast between the code and background causes failures. Use the Control Center scanner and enable the flashlight. Alternatively, increase screen brightness on the surface displaying the code.
4. Damaged or obscured code
QR codes have error correction built in (up to 30% damage tolerance at level H). If more than that is obscured - torn, scuffed, or poorly printed - the code won't scan. The fix is to reprint with a larger size or higher print resolution.
5. The code links to an HTTP URL (not HTTPS)
iOS restricts non-HTTPS URLs in some contexts. If the QR code points to http:// instead of https://, Safari may block or warn about it. The fix is to update the destination URL to HTTPS, or use a dynamic QR code with an HTTPS short link that redirects to the HTTP destination.
How to create a QR code on iPhone
iPhone doesn't have a built-in QR code creator (only a scanner). To generate a QR code from your phone:
- Open Safari and go to QR4Everyone.
- Create a free account or log in.
- Paste or type your URL, set a custom slug if you want, and tap Create.
- Tap the QR code image and hold to save it to your Photos library, or tap Share to send it directly.
The QR code is saved as a PNG you can share via AirDrop, Messages, or email, or use in design apps like Canva directly from your camera roll.