How to Scan a QR Code on iPhone — 3 Easy Methods
Every iPhone running iOS 11 or later can scan QR codes using the built-in Camera app — no separate scanner app required. This guide covers three methods for scanning QR codes on iPhone, plus troubleshooting tips if your camera is not detecting QR codes.
Updated 26 February 2026
How to Scan a QR Code with Your iPhone Camera
1
Open the Camera app
Open the Camera app on your iPhone. You can do this from the Home Screen, Lock Screen (swipe left), or Control Center.
2
Point your camera at the QR code
Hold your iPhone so the QR code appears in the camera viewfinder. Your iPhone will automatically detect and read the QR code — no need to take a photo.
3
Tap the notification banner
A notification banner will appear at the top of the screen showing the QR code destination. Tap it to open the link in Safari or the relevant app.
Alternative Ways to Scan QR Codes on iPhone
Besides the Camera app, iPhone offers two more scanning options for different situations.
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Code Scanner from Control Center
Swipe down from the top-right corner (or up from the bottom on older iPhones) to open Control Center. Tap the QR code icon to launch the built-in Code Scanner. It includes a flashlight for scanning in low light.
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Code Scanner app via App Library
Search for "Code Scanner" in your App Library. This standalone app opens directly to scanning mode and includes a torch button — ideal for quick scans without opening Camera first.
QR Code Not Scanning? Troubleshooting Tips
If your iPhone will not scan a QR code, try these fixes before downloading a third-party app.
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Check that QR scanning is enabled
Go to Settings, then Camera, and make sure "Scan QR Codes" is toggled on. This is enabled by default but can be accidentally turned off.
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Hold your camera steady and at the right distance
Keep your iPhone 15–25 cm (6–10 inches) from the QR code. Too close or too far and the camera cannot focus properly on the pattern.
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Ensure adequate lighting
QR codes need enough light to be read clearly. In dark environments, use the Code Scanner from Control Center — it has a built-in flashlight.
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Check the QR code itself
Damaged, blurry, or poorly printed QR codes may not scan. If the QR code is on a screen, try increasing the screen brightness and reducing glare.
Tips for Scanning QR Codes Effectively
Get the most out of QR codes with these practical scanning tips.
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Use Live Text for QR codes in photos
In iOS 15 and later, you can scan QR codes from photos in your camera roll. Open the photo, long-press the QR code, and tap the link that appears.
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Scan QR codes from screenshots
If someone sends you a QR code image, save it and open it in Photos. iOS will detect the QR code and offer to open the link — no need to print it.
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Check where the link goes before tapping
Always read the URL shown in the notification banner before tapping. Legitimate QR codes link to recognisable domains. Avoid codes that link to suspicious or shortened URLs.
iPhone QR Code Scanning Methods Compared
| Method | iOS Version | Best For | How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camera App | iOS 11+ | Everyday scanning | Home Screen or Lock Screen |
| Code Scanner (Control Center) | iOS 12+ | Low-light scanning | Swipe to Control Center |
| Code Scanner (App Library) | iOS 14+ | Quick dedicated scanning | Search in App Library |
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about How to Scan a QR Code on iPhone — 3 Easy Methods.
No. Every iPhone running iOS 11 or later has a built-in QR code scanner in the Camera app. No additional app is needed.
All iPhones running iOS 11 or later can scan QR codes with the Camera app. That includes iPhone 6s and every model since.
Yes. On iOS 15 and later, open the photo in the Photos app, long-press the QR code, and tap the link. You can also use the Live Text feature.
Check that QR code scanning is enabled in Settings, then Camera. Make sure you have enough light, hold your phone steady at 15–25 cm distance, and ensure the QR code itself is not damaged or blurry.
Your iPhone reads the data encoded in the QR code — typically a URL — and shows a notification banner. Tap it to open the link in Safari. For trackable QR codes, the redirect also records analytics like device type and location.