QR codes are everywhere: in restaurants for the menu, on product packaging, at events for tickets, and even on business cards. With your smartphone you can scan them in a few seconds. In this comprehensive guide you'll learn everything about scanning QR codes, from the basics to advanced tips.

What exactly is a QR code?

QR stands for "Quick Response". A QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that contains information. Unlike regular barcodes (the ones you see on products in the supermarket), QR codes can hold much more data:

  • Websites: A link to a web page
  • Contact details: Save a name, phone number and email in one go
  • Wi-Fi networks: Connect automatically without typing a password
  • Payment details: For apps such as Tikkie or iDEAL
  • Locations: Open an address in Google Maps
  • Tickets: Admission for events or boarding passes for flights
  • KPN webmail login: complete guide
  • AirPlay to Mac: share your iPhone screen

Scanning a QR code with an iPhone (iOS)

Apple has built QR scanning into the standard Camera app. You don't need an extra app.

  1. Open the Camera app on your iPhone
  2. Point the camera at the QR code (make sure the entire code is in view)
  3. Hold your phone still; the iPhone recognizes the code automatically
  4. A yellow notification appears at the top of the screen
  5. Tap this notification to open the link

Method 2: Using Control Center

  1. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen
  2. Tap the QR code icon (a small square with lines)
  3. The scanner opens right away
  4. Point it at the QR code and tap the link

Adding the QR scanner to Control Center

Don't see the QR icon? Add it:

  1. Go to Settings → Control Center
  2. Scroll to "More Controls"
  3. Tap the + next to "Code Scanner"

Check your settings

Scanning not working? Check this:

  1. Go to Settings → Camera
  2. Make sure "Scan QR Codes is turned on

Scanning a QR code with Android

On Android there are several ways, depending on your phone brand and Android version.

Method 1: Using the Camera app

Most modern Android phones (Samsung, Pixel, OnePlus, Xiaomi) scan QR codes automatically:

  1. Open the Camera app
  2. Point it at the QR code
  3. Wait until a link appears
  4. Tap the link to open it

Method 2: Google Lens (all Android phones)

Google Lens is the most reliable method:

  1. Open the Google app
  2. Tap the camera icon in the search bar (Google Lens)
  3. Point it at the QR code
  4. Lens recognizes the code and shows the link
  5. Tap the link to open it

Method 3: Quick Settings

On many Android phones:

  1. Swipe down from the top of your screen (twice)
  2. Look for a QR code icon in Quick Settings
  3. Tap it to open the scanner

Samsung phones specifically

Samsung has a built-in scanner:

  1. Open the Camera app
  2. Tap Bixby Vision or the Lens icon
  3. Select QR code
  4. Point it at the code

Common places where you'll find QR codes

Restaurants and cafés

Since the coronavirus pandemic, many restaurants and bars use QR codes for their menu. You scan the code on the table and view the menu on your phone. Sometimes you can also order and pay directly through the QR code.

Product packaging

Manufacturers put QR codes on packaging for:

  • Detailed product information
  • Instructions for use and manuals
  • Recipes (on food packaging)
  • Warranty registration

Events and transportation

QR codes on tickets for:

  • Concerts and festivals
  • Museums and amusement parks
  • Plane tickets (in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet)
  • Train tickets (NS, international trains)

Payments

You can pay with QR codes through:

  • Tikkie: Scan to pay someone
  • iDEAL QR: In some stores
  • PayPal: Scan to pay at participating stores

Using QR codes safely

QR codes are handy, but scammers can also abuse them. Follow these safety guidelines:

Check the source

  • Only scan QR codes from trusted sources
  • Be careful with QR codes in public places (bus shelters, lampposts)
  • Scammers sometimes stick fake stickers over real QR codes

Check the URL before you tap

  • Your phone shows the link first, before you tap it
  • Check that the web address is correct (e.g. really "ing.nl" and not "ing-bank-login.com")
  • Watch out for strange domain names or spelling mistakes

Never just enter your details

  • A QR code never asks for your password or PIN directly
  • Be extra alert when personal details are requested
  • Banks never send QR codes by email or text message for logging in

Troubleshooting QR code scanning

The code is not recognized

  • More light: Make sure there is enough lighting
  • Distance: Try moving closer or farther away
  • Clean lens: Clean your camera lens with a soft cloth
  • Hold still: Hold your phone still for a few seconds
  • Entire code in view: Make sure all corners of the QR code are visible
  • Check your internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data)
  • The website may be temporarily offline
  • The QR code may have expired (for temporary promotions)

The wrong app opens

Sometimes your phone opens the wrong app. You can change this in your settings under "Default apps".

Frequently asked questions about QR codes

Do I need a special app?

No, modern iPhones and Android phones have QR scanning built in. You don't need an extra app. Only download a separate scanner app if the built-in feature really doesn't work.

Can QR codes contain viruses?

The QR code itself doesn't contain a virus, but it can link to a malicious website. That's why you should always check the URL before you tap it.

Can I create my own QR codes?

Yes! There are free websites such as qr-code-generator.com where you can create your own QR codes, for example for your Wi-Fi password or contact details.

Do QR codes work without internet?

Scanning itself works without internet, but you usually do need an internet connection to open the link.

With this knowledge you can scan any QR code quickly and safely from now on!

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