How to Use an Android Phone to Scan QR Codes

Can you scan QR codes on Android? 

QR codes are useful, though if you are not familiar with technology, they may appear inconvenient. There are a variety of ways to scan QR codes, including using the camera on a smartphone or using applications. The notion of QR codes has simplified our lives in recent years, especially when it comes to getting information and making digital payments. Because of the vast amount of information available and our inability to handle papers, QR codes come to the aid. 

People can scan the QR code with their Android phone camera to access a website or app that may contain information such as their ticket, tracking information (in the event of an online order), contact details, or any other data. 

QR codes bring convenience, but they might raise concerns about their use and the possibility of providing apps access to your camera. While security issues remain, the procedure of reading these codes varies amongst Android phones. However, scanning these QR codes is simple, no matter which Android phone you have, from the most modern Samsung to ancient OnePlus devices.

Different Ways to Scan QR Codes on Android 

Using the Default Camera App

Most Androids now are equipped with a camera app that allows you to read QR codes straight from the phone. The majority of newly released devices contain this feature. 

To use the QR code scanner on the Camera app, simply open it and point the lens at the QR code for a few seconds. Remember, you don't need to snap a picture; simply position the lens such that the code is in the middle of the frame and easily visible. Check to see that your phone is stable and has an active internet connection. A link will display on the screen if the scanning is successful. Once you click on it, you'll be sent to the website or information included in the QR code.

Scanning with Google Lens

With the use of an app called Google Lens, Google Assistant can also assist you in scanning QR codes. This app will only work if you have Android 8 or above installed on your phone. 

To scan QR codes on Android, simply start Google Assistant and hit the Google Lens icon to activate the function. Hold the Google Lens for a few seconds over the QR code. It will highlight the code and display a link that will take you to the necessary material. You'll also need an internet connection to use this app.

Installing Third-Party QR Code Scanner Apps

If none of the previous techniques worked for you, or if your phone is running an earlier version of Android, you can turn to third-party applications for help. There are a plethora of third-party programs available for free, including Barcode Scanner, QR Code Reader, and Scanner. All you have to do is search the Google Play Store for "QR code scanner". 

However, keep in mind that free apps often have flaws. Using them can expose you to several risks, such as privacy or security concerns. So make your decision based on a high average rating.

Using an Online QR Code Scanner

Online QR code scanners work like traditional apps. They allow you to scan a QR code with your webcam or the camera of your device using HTML5 WebRTC API.

If you visit an online QR code scanner, it will ask permission to use the camera of your device before you can start scanning QR codes. After that, you can save the website as a bookmark and drag it to your home screen. Doing this allows you to open the online QR code scanner instantly.

We suggest using online QR code scanners rather than the usual mobile apps. They are safer and more convenient for your device as you don't have to install them. 

Scan QR Codes on Android Screen

You can also scan QR codes on your screen. This is possible through the use of the Google App. 

If your phone doesn't have the Google App, you can use the Google Lens.

Google Lens is a Google object recognition tool that looks for information in an image or camera view. It works with QR codes, bar codes, and any other thing you direct the camera at. When you aim the Camera at a photograph of the United States Capitol, it recognizes the item as the United States Capitol Building.

Google Lens may be found in either the Google app or the Google Photos app. For this procedure, we'll use Google Lens, which can be accessible in the Google app.

Open the Google app on your iPhone.

• Tap Google Lens in the search bar next to the microphone. Google Lens is a search engine that allows you to find information.
• Permission to use the camera should be granted to the Google app. If you've never used Google Lens before, you'll notice this. To utilize Lens, tap Turn on the camera.
• Find the Photos icon in the top right corner of your screen. The contents of your photo library will be shown.
• Select the photo with the QR code you want to scan by tapping the All Photos button. 
• The information from the QR code will appear on the screen in a few seconds. 

That's how to scan QR codes on Android devices. You have plenty of options to do this task. However, it's better to stay safe and use online QR code scanners like the one here on our website. 

If you have more questions about how to scan QR codes on Android or QR codes, feel free to send us a message. 

---

Subscribers Get More QR Stuff

Become a QR Stuff paid subscriber and get unlimited QR codes, unlimited scans, analytics reporting, editable dynamic QR codes, high resolution, and vector QR code images, batch processing, password-protected QR codes, QR code styling, QR code pausing and scheduling, and more, for one low subscription fee.

Full subscriptions start from just $11.95 for a 1-month subscription (lower monthly rates for longer periods). Subscribe now.