How to a Scan QR Code

What is a QR code?

QR codes are two-dimensional versions of a barcode, usually consisting of a black and white pixel structure. They can be found wherever data needs to be read quickly and efficiently.

The name says it all – "QR" stands for "Quick Response". QR Codes can be found on tickets, vending machines, stamps, flyers or posters.

How to use the Adobe Scan QR code scanner

You can access the Adobe Scan app for free – whether you’re at home or on the go. The QR code scanner works with iOS, Android and other devices.

Simply download on your chosen app store and follow these steps:

• Open the app on your smartphone.
• Capture the QR code with the camera.
• The text or link stored in the QR code is displayed on your phone and can be clicked on.
• If the QR code contains longer text, click on the symbol in the top right corner to display the entire content.

How much does a QR code scanner cost?

Scanning QR codes is free with the Adobe Scan App. The app can not only be used to scan QR codes, but also to scan documents and turn them into PDF files.

As well as the Adobe Scan App, you might also be able to scan QR codes with the built-in camera on your device. This will depend on the model and operating system though.

Many new devices have a QR code scanning function, while older models often require an additional app.

How to scan QR codes with your phone camera

You can test whether your camera can read QR codes directly by following the steps below.

1. Start the camera on your smartphone and point it at the QR code.
2. Hold it still for about 2-3 seconds and wait for the camera to focus.
3. Once the scan function is activated, a message should pop up on the screen. Click to access the information
4. If no message appears, the QR code scanning function may not be activated yet.

If you cannot find an option for scanning QR codes in the device settings, your device may not be able to scan QR codes by default. But with the Adobe Scan App, you have a multifunctional, free app for scanning QR codes at your disposal.

How do I scan a QR code without a second device?

Scanning QR codes is quick and easy with the Adobe Scan App. But how does it work if you only have the code digitally stored on your smartphone, but no second device is available to read it?

The process will based on your model.

How it works with Android devices:

• Take a screenshot or save the QR code as an image. If the QR code is in an email, on a website or in a PDF, you can take a screenshot or save the image directly.
• The QR code can be read particularly easily with Google Lens. The function has its own app but is also integrated with Google Photos. Open Google Photos, select the image with the QR code and tap on "Lens". Usually, Google Lens recognises the QR code by itself and reads it automatically.

Learn more about scanning QR codes on Android.

How it works with iOS devices:

• Similar to Android, you must first take a screenshot or save the QR code as an image.
• Then use iPhone Photos: Open the "Photos" app, select the image with the QR code and tap the "Live Text" icon at the bottom right. Then tap the QR code and select "Copy" or "Open Link".

Learn more about scanning on iPhone.

What is read when scanning QR codes?

If you scan a QR code, a wide variety of data stored behind it can be read out. Often URLs are embedded that lead users to a specific website. However, some also contain texts, voucher codes, addresses or other content.

Some of the most popular functions are:

• URL: Leads directly to a website.
• vCard: A virtual contact card, that allows you to add a new contact.
• Geolocation: Shows a specific location in Google Maps.
• Text: Presents a fixed text.
• E-mail: Allows you to send an e-mail with pre-written text.
• SMS: Allows you to send an SMS with pre-formulated text.
• Wi-Fi: Connects to a Wi-Fi network.
• Bitcoin: Allows transactions with cryptocurrency.
• X: Allows linking to an X profile or sharing a post.
• Facebook: Links directly to a Facebook page.
• PDF: Allows you to download a stored PDF file.
• MP3: Plays a stored MP3 file.
• App Store: Opens the App Store and a specific app in it.
• Image: Displays an image and a specific app in it.

Is it safe to scan a QR code?

Generally, QR codes are safe to use. However, they have been used for fraudulent purposes in the past. Therefore, your app should ideally scan the QR code first and display what the code contains before it is executed in case it refers to websites with malware. It is best to make sure that the stored link starts with https://, as this means the website is stored in the HTTPS protocol.

How long can QR codes be scanned and read?

QR codes are a very reliable means of data transmission. Because the information is embedded multiple times, they can still be read even if the codes are partially destroyed or obscured.

Static QR codes are valid indefinitely. Scanning these QR codes only stops working if, for example, the underlying link has been changed or deleted.

It is also possible to create dynamic codes whose content can be replaced as desired. The underlying data can therefore be adjusted after they have been created.

Tip: You can generate a QR code for free with the Adobe Express QR Code Generator.