How to Scan QR Codes With an Android Phone
If you’re using an Android phone, scanning a QR code is usually quick and simple, but not every device handles it the same way.
Some models come with a built-in scanner, while others may need an extra app to get the job done.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different ways to scan QR codes on Android, from using your phone’s native features to downloading reliable third-party apps.
No matter your device, you’ll know exactly how to scan safely and get the most out of every QR code you come across.
Table of Contents
- Does your Android phone already have a QR code scanner?
- How to scan QR codes on Android (Android 8 and newer)
- How to scan QR codes on Samsung Galaxy phones
- How to scan QR codes on Xiaomi and other Android devices
- Best free QR code scanner apps for Android
- How to scan QR codes using popular apps you already have
- Can you scan QR codes without downloading an app?
- Why your Android phone won’t scan QR codes (and how to fix it)
- FAQs about scanning QR codes on Android
Does your Android phone already have a QR code scanner?
Most Android phones today come with a built-in QR scanner right in the camera app. If your device runs on Android 8 or 9, you can usually scan codes on Android without installing anything extra.
But if you’re using an older version or your phone hasn’t had the latest updates, you might be asking how to read QR codes with Android or what to do when the Android camera is not reading QR codes.
Don’t worry. There’s a simple way to check if your phone has a default QR code scanner:
- Open your Android camera QR code reader (the regular camera app).
- Point it at the QR code and hold it steady for 2–3 seconds.
- If your phone supports it, a small pop-up will appear. Tap the notification to open the link or content.
If nothing happens, go to your Camera Settings and look for the QR scanner option. Most Android phones list it under Settings > Camera > Scan QR codes. If you find that toggle, your phone does indeed have an Android built-in QR code scanner.
Other Android phones may label it as a built-in barcode scanner or barcode reader.
When the feature is active, your Android default QR scanner makes it effortless. Just point the Android camera QR code reader at the code and tap the pop-up. If your phone doesn’t support it natively, there are still plenty of reliable apps you can download to scan QR codes quickly.
Either way, you’ll always have a convenient way to access links, menus, or files hidden inside QR codes, whether through the Android built-in QR code reader or a third-party app.
How to scan QR codes on Android (Android 8 and newer)
If you’re using Android 8 or newer, scanning a QR code is pretty simple thanks to Google Lens. Most phones already have this feature built in, so you don’t need a separate app.
Here’s how you can scan QR codes on Android 8 and up:
- Open your camera app and point it at the QR code.
- If your phone supports it, a link or pop-up will show up on the screen. Just tap it to open the QR code’s content.
If this doesn’t work, you can try this:
- Open the Google Camera app on your phone.
- If you want to use the built-in QR mode, just tap QR and point your camera at the code.
- You can also scan using the regular photo mode. Simply point your camera at the QR code and wait for it to recognize it.
Quick tip: QR codes won’t work if your camera is set to portrait or video mode.
Once the code is scanned, tap the banner that pops up to open the link.
Keep in mind that not every phone running Android 8 or later has QR scanning enabled by default. Some brands customize their camera apps, so if the built-in Android 8 QR code scanner doesn’t appear, you may need to use Google Lens directly or download a trusted QR code reader.
This way, you can easily read QR codes on Android 8 and newer without any extra hassle.
How to scan QR codes on Samsung Galaxy phones
Scanning QR codes on your Samsung Galaxy phone is quick and simple, no matter which model you have. Here’s a step-by-step guide you can follow:
Using the Camera app
- Open the Camera app on your Samsung Galaxy phone.
- Tap the gear icon to open the camera settings.
- Make sure the “Scan QR codes” option is switched on.
- Point your camera at the QR code so it’s clearly within the frame.
- A pop-up will appear with the link or details from the code—just tap it to continue.
If you’re wondering, “How do I scan on my Samsung Galaxy?” or “How do I scan a QR code on Samsung Galaxy A20e?” This built-in option is usually the fastest way.
💡Do you know?
You can check your phone’s Android version. Follow the steps to check what Android version your device has. Note that it may differ depending on the installed version on your current device.
Using Bixby Vision
If your phone doesn’t show the option above, you can scan with Bixby Vision:
- Open your Camera app and tap the Bixby Vision icon.
- If prompted, allow the app permissions in your settings.
- Point the camera at the QR code and select Go to open the content.
This is especially handy if you’re using an older model, like those searching for the best QR code reader for Samsung Galaxy S7.
Using Quick Settings
Another shortcut is through the Quick Settings panel:
- Swipe down from the top of your screen.
- Look for the Scan QR code icon and tap it.
- Hold your phone over the QR code, and it should detect it right away.
So whether you’re asking “how do I scan with my Samsung Galaxy phone?” or setting up an app for the first time, you’ve got multiple easy ways to scan QR codes without needing a third-party app.
How to scan QR codes on Xiaomi and other Android devices
Scanning QR codes on Xiaomi Mi 8 SE is simple and requires just a few quick settings. Here’s how you can do it:
- Open the Camera app on your phone.
- Tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) to access the settings.
- Look for the option labeled “Scan QR codes” and switch it on.
- Hold your phone steady and point the camera at the QR code for a couple of seconds.
- A notification will pop up. Tap it to open the link or content.
Pro tip: Make sure the QR code is in good lighting and properly centered in the frame for the best results.
With this built-in feature, you don’t need extra apps. Your camera doubles as a handy Xiaomi QR code scanner. Whether you’re opening a menu, connecting to Wi-Fi, or accessing a site, scanning a QR code on Xiaomi is as straightforward as snapping a photo.
Best free QR code scanner apps for Android
For Android 7 and older versions, you won’t find a built-in QR scanner in your phone’s camera. The good news is, the Google Play Store has plenty of reliable apps you can download for free.
If you’re looking for the best free QR scanner for Android phones, here are some solid options worth checking out:
QR TIGER Scanner and QR Code Generator App
QR TIGER is one of the most versatile tools out there. Their app works as both a QR code scanner and a QR code generator, so you can not only scan but also create codes right from your phone.
What makes it stand out from other apps is the ad-free experience. Unlike many free apps, QR TIGER doesn’t flood your screen with annoying pop-ups. Scanning is fast and accurate, making it one of the best QR code readers for Android if you’re always on the go.
Beyond scanning, you can also design your own custom QR codes for free—perfect for personal use, business branding, or marketing. It’s highly rated too, earning an impressive 4.8 score from G2, Trustpilot, and SourceForge.
“What an advanced QR Code reader and generator rolled into one! It provides you with multiple options when generating your QR Code. The features available here are not found with the other QR code app. Definitely switching into this!”
-Sawyer Stafford
Barcode scanner app
If you just want a straightforward way to scan QR codes or barcodes without extra fuss, the Barcode Scanner app is also a solid choice. It’s a free barcode reader for Android that works right away once you download it.
The only drawback is that the free version comes with ads, which can be a little distracting. If you want a smoother experience, you can:
Pay $0.99 to remove ads.
Upgrade to the professional version (around $3.99) if you need more advanced features for business or frequent use.
That flexibility makes it one of the best QR and barcode scanners for Android, whether you’re a casual user or using it for work.
“I love this scanner, but it gives a flash in n’ out that doesn’t let me hit the scan button. Sometimes, the scans get deleted if there is a way to store the barcodes automatically until you manually delete them. That would be awesome!!!”
-Leo Diaz
QR Reader
If you’re after a no-frills free QR code reader app for Android, QR Reader does the job. It’s quick to install, easy to use, and doesn’t cost a thing.
While it’s not packed with advanced features, it’s convenient and simple enough for everyday use. Just keep in mind that this app is available only on Android, not iPhone.
With a customer rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars, it’s a dependable option if you’re looking for a free QR code for Android solution.
“QR READER Works great. Simple to use. I use it at the Staten Island Mall all the time.”
-Jim Stevenson
With these apps, you don’t need to worry about missing out on QR code convenience just because you’re using an older phone.
Try them out and see which one works best for your needs, whether you’re scanning codes for shopping, work, or personal use.
Discover more of Android's best QR code scanner and generator apps to find the perfect tool for scanning and generating QR codes easily.
How to scan QR codes using popular apps you already have
These popular apps not only enrich your daily digital experience but also provide handy QR code scanning capabilities.
Discovering the potential of QR codes on your Android device can be transformative, especially when you realize that some of your everyday apps can do much more than you might have expected.
Pinterest, known for its visual inspiration, offers a fantastic feature called Lens Visual Discovery.
With this feature, you can scan QR codes to unlock a world of valuable actions. Point your camera at the QR code, and Pinterest will provide relevant and inspiring content.
Shazam
Shazam is a renowned music identification app that goes beyond its primary function.
It allows you to read QR codes and interact with engaging, extensive, and exclusive content or offers.
Additionally, you can use Shazam to make purchases and easily share exciting finds with friends using QR codes.
Snapchat
Snapchat has over 210 million users and is a powerhouse in the social media world. But did you know that the Android version of Snapchat can scan QR codes?
It’s a convenient feature that opens up new possibilities. Point your camera at the QR code, and you’ll receive a pop-up notification. Click on it to explore and access the content contained within the QR code.
Note: On some older devices, you may need to take a Snap of the code before it's detected.
Learn how to scan a QR code on Android without an app to discover simple steps to enable QR code scanning directly from your device.
Can you scan QR codes without downloading an app?
Yes, you usually can. Most modern Android phones already have a built-in QR code scanner in the camera app. Just open your camera and point it at the QR code, and you’ll see a link or prompt appear on your screen.
If your camera doesn’t have this feature, many devices also have Google Lens available by default, either in the Google app or through Google Assistant.
Only if your phone doesn’t support either of these would you need to grab a third-party QR scanner from the Play Store.
Why your Android phone won’t scan QR codes (and how to fix it)
If your phone isn’t picking up a QR code, don’t worry. It usually comes down to a quick setting or a small issue you can fix in minutes.
There are a few reasons why your Android phone won’t read a QR code right away:
- The camera setting is off. Your Android phone may require you to enable “Scan QR codes” in the Camera settings.
- Older software. Android 7 or earlier doesn’t have a built-in scanner. You’ll need a third-party app from the Play Store.
- Google Lens is disabled. On Android 8 and newer, QR code scanning relies on Google Lens. If it’s off, scanning won’t work.
- Poor lighting or focus. If the area is too dark, the lens is dirty, or the phone is shaky, the code may not register.
- Problem with the QR code. A blurry code, cut off, or damaged won’t scan.
- Conflicting apps. Some phones ship with their own QR apps that can interfere. Switching to your camera or a different app usually solves this.
Quick fix checklist:
- Turn on “Scan QR codes” in Camera settings.
- Make sure you’re in good lighting.
- Hold your phone steady and let it focus.
- Try Google Lens if the camera doesn’t respond.
- Use a scanner app if you’re on an older version.
FAQs about scanning QR codes on Android
Do all Android phones have a QR scanner?
Not every Android phone has one built in, but most newer models do. If your phone is fairly recent, you can usually just open the camera and point it at a QR code, and the link will show up right on your screen.
If you’ve got an older phone, you may need to use Google Lens or download a scanner app from the Play Store.
How do you scan barcodes on Android?
It works almost the same as scanning a QR code. Open your camera or Google Lens, hold it over the barcode, and wait for the info to appear.
If your phone’s camera doesn’t pick it up, you can grab a free barcode scanner app to do the job.
What’s the best free QR code scanner app?
QR TIGER app is usually the best pick. It’s a free and safe scanner app for Android devices that won’t bother you with ads like many third-party apps do. You can also try Google Lens. It’s also free and already built into most Android devices.
How do I scan QR codes with Google Lens?
Open the Google Lens app, or tap the little Lens icon in your Google search bar or camera. Point it at the QR code, and the link or action will pop up on your screen.
