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How to Scan a QR Code on Your Phone or Computer

Applies toiOSAndroidWindows 11Windows 10
3 min fix Updated 20 Jul 2026

By , 10+ years in IT support and helpdesk How these guides are checked

Quick Answer

Open your phone's built-in Camera app, point it at the QR code without taking a picture, and tap the yellow link that pops up on the screen to open the website.

Checked against Microsoft Learn - Windows release health and Microsoft Learn - end of support and retirement between 5 Aug 2026 and 12 Sep 2026. Nothing published in that period has been linked to this guide.

Estimated Time to Fix: 3 minutes

Summary ​

This article guides you through scanning a QR code using your smartphone's built-in camera or your Windows computer's camera.

Before You Start ​

  • A device with a working camera.

Instructions ​

1. Scan a QR Code on an iPhone or iPad ​

The built-in Camera app reads QR codes, so there is no separate scanner app to install.

  1. Open the built-in Camera app from your home screen or lock screen.
  2. Point the camera at the QR code so that it appears sharp and fully inside the frame.
  3. Tap the yellow link that appears on the screen to open the website or application.

2. Scan a QR Code on an Android Phone ​

Android's Camera app also reads QR codes, with Google Lens as the fallback.

  1. Open the built-in Camera app.
  2. Point the camera at the QR code.
  3. Tap the link or pop-up notification that appears on the screen. (If nothing happens, tap the Google Lens icon in your camera app).

3. Scan a QR Code on a Windows Computer ​

A webcam handles the job when the code is printed on paper and your phone is not to hand.

  1. Click the Start button and type Camera, then press Enter to open the built-in Camera app.
  2. Click the Barcode icon (a small square with a line through it) on the right side of the screen.
  3. Hold the QR code up to your webcam.
  4. Click the link that appears on your screen.

4. Verify Success ​

The code should open a page in your browser or offer an app to install.

  1. The link should successfully open in your default web browser or prompt you to download an app.

Troubleshooting ​

WARNING

Never scan QR codes from unknown or untrusted sources. Scammers sometimes place fake QR code stickers over real ones to steal your login credentials or money.

Symptom / ErrorPotential CauseSolution
Nothing happens when scanningToo dark or too closeMove to a well-lit area and hold the device further away so the camera can focus.
Windows Camera app shows an errorCamera privacy settingsOpen Settings > Privacy & security > Camera and turn on Camera access.

Last updated:

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to download a QR scanner app?
No. Modern iPhones and Androids have QR code scanning built directly into their default Camera apps. Third-party scanner apps are unnecessary and often filled with ads.
How do I scan a QR code that is already saved on my phone's screen?
On an iPhone, take a screenshot of the QR code, open the Photos app, tap the 'Live Text' icon (a small square with lines) in the bottom right, and tap the QR code to open the link.