How to scan a QR code on Android
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QR codes are becoming more and more common in day-to-day life. It could be how you access the menu at a restaurant or how you sign up for the latest business updates at an event. You might even use QR codes yourself for networking with other professionals, or sharing your business card with clients.
Whatever the situation, it’s important to know how to scan a QR code on your chosen device. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different ways you can scan a QR code on an Android device – whether it’s a physical code or a digital one in your photo library.
4 ways to scan a QR code on your Android device
There are four main ways to scan a QR code on your Android device. The method you choose will usually depend on whether you’re scanning the code in-person, such as on a sign or menu, or receiving the code digitally – for example, via an email.
1. Scan a QR code on Android using your camera
To scan a QR code on Android, do the following:
- Open the Camera app on your Android device.
- Point the camera at the QR code, ensuring it’s clearly visible.
- Wait for a pop-up notification to appear.
- Tap the notification to open the link or action associated with the QR code.
If no notification appears, you’ll need to enable Google Lens in the camera settings – if using a Google phone – or download a separate QR scanner app. More on this below.
2. Use the QR scanner on Android
An alternative way to access the QR scanner on Android is through Quick Settings. To do this:
- Pull down from the top of the screen.
- Select the QR scanner icon.
- Aim your phone’s camera at the QR code.
But what if the QR code is saved on your phone? Like as a picture already in your gallery, for example? It’s not as straightforward as doing it from an external source. Luckily, there’s an easy solution – Circle to Search.
3. Scan a QR code on your Android phone with Circle to Search
Is the QR code saved as a picture or attachment on your phone? In this case, you’ll need to use Circle to Search.
Circle to Search is available on a range of Android devices. First, you’ll need to check it’s activated. If not, do the following:
- Launch the Settings app from your home screen or app drawer.
- Tap the search bar at the top and type ‘Circle to Search’.
- If the feature is available, use the toggle switch to turn it on or off.
Once the feature is turned on, you can use it to scan a QR code on your Android device without using your camera. To do this:
- Hold down the home button.
- Wait for the Google search bar to appear – this means the tool is ready to use.
- Use your finger to draw a circle around the QR code.
- Circle to Search will scan, open and display the relevant URL or information.
Use the free Adobe Scan app
Looking for a different QR scanner to use on your Android device? The Adobe Scan app also lets you scan QR codes. Here’s how to use it:
- Launch the app and tap the camera icon.
- Choose Document as the capture mode – the QR code icon will pop up in the top-right corner.
- Adjust any optional settings to your preference.
- Aim the camera at the QR code you want to scan.
- You can choose one of these actions:
- Tap the badge to open the page linked to the QR code.
- If there’s an option to copy the QR code text, tap the badge to copy and paste it into a browser.
- Tap anywhere on the screen to dismiss the badge.
How to enable QR code scanning on Android
QR code scanning is automatically enabled on most modern Android phones via the camera app. However, you can also add the Scan QR Code tile to your lock screen for quick access.
To do this:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Display.
- Tap Lock Screen.
- Tap Shortcuts.
- Tap the + icon.
- Select Scan QR Code.
FAQs
Can I scan a QR code from a screenshot on Android?
How can I create my own QR code on Android?
Why isn’t my Android phone scanning QR codes?
Your Android phone may not scan the QR code if your camera is too close, or too far away. Try bringing the camera closer to the code, then slowly move it back. Or start with the camera about a foot away and gently move it closer to the QR code until it scans.
Some older Android models may not have a QR code scanner built-in. Instead, you can download an app like Adobe Scan to scan and access the codes.
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