How to scan QR codes on Android without an app: Detailed instructions for all devices

June 6, 2025 - 3:00 PM

You want to learn How to scan QR code on Android device. You want to scan QR codes but are afraid to install additional applications? Worried about information security, space consumption or many ads. The good news is Most Android phones today have built-in QR code scanning feature.via camera or Google Lens. This article iCheckQR will guide you on how to check and use available methods to scan QR codes quickly and safely without installing additional apps - applicable to most devices such as Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Realme, and Google Pixel.

1. Check if your Android phone supports QR code scanning

You can quickly check if your Android phone has built-in QR code scanning feature with these simple steps:

Step 1: Open the app Camera.

Step 2: Click on the icongear setting(usually located in the upper left or right corner of the screen).

Step 3: Find options related to QR codes like“Scan QR code”, “Scan QR code”, or “Google Lens”. If any, enable this feature

Step 4: Point the camera at a test QR code.If your phone displays a notification or link, your device supports it.

Illustration of steps to check if Android supports QR code scanning

Popular Android models that support QR code scanning:

Samsung: One UI 2 or later (Android 10+)
Xiaomi: MIUI 11 or later
Oppo: ColorOS 7 or later
Realme: Realme UI 2.0 or above
Google Pixel: Android 8.0 and above (Google Lens built-in)

2. How to scan QR codes using the default camera on Android

Step 1: Open the app Camera on the home screen or from the lock screen.
Step 2: Point the camera at the QR code to be scanned, keeping the code within the frame.
Step 3: Wait 1–2 seconds, if the phone supports it, a pop-up notification or link will appear.
Step 4:Tap on the notification to open the website, perform an action (call, connect to Wi-Fi…).

Note: If you don't see the notification, check and enable the “Scan QR Code” feature in the camera settings.

3. Scan QR code with Google Lens (no additional installation required)

Use Google Lens in the default Google app

Step 1: Open the app Google on the phone.Click on the icon Camera (Lens)next to the search bar.

Step 2: Click camera icon. Point the camera at the QR code →wait a few seconds, the link or information will be displayed.

Step 3: Click on the result that appears to perform an action (open a link, connect to Wi-Fi…).

Use Google Lens in Google Photos (scan from existing photos)

Step 1: Open the app Google Photos.

Step 2: Select the photo containing the QR code.
Step 3: Click on the icon Google Lens below the picture.Take action according to the displayed results.

Note: Many Android phones today have Integrate Google Lens into native camera (Samsung, Pixel, Oppo...), you can try opening Camera and finding the Lens icon or go to Settings and go to Advanced features.

4. How to enable QR code scanning in camera if it is not displayed

For Samsung phones

Step 1: Open Setting.
Step 2: Go to sectionAdvanced Features.
Step 3: Find and enable the option “Scan QR Codes”.

For Xiaomi / Oppo / Realme

Step 1: Open the appCamera.
Step 2: Click on the icon Setting(gear shape).
Step 3: Find item “Scan QR code”and brush turn on feature

5. Can't scan QR code? Here's a quick fix

Error encountered	Common causes	How to handle suggestions
No pop-up when scanning	Feature not enabled	Go to settings and enable scanning.
QR code not scannable	Code is blurred, low light	Adjust the angle, add light
Scan finished but link not opened	Application does not recognize format	Use Google Lens instead

6. When should I use an external app?

Phone is too old: No Google Lens support or built-in QR scanning feature.
Need advanced features:

Scan codes containing complex information (wifi, business cards, emails...).
Save scan history, analyze QR code.
Create your own QR code, customize the interface.

Suggest 3 reputable QR code scanning apps

Application	Key Features	Advantage
QR & Barcode Scanner	Scan QR codes directly & from photo library	Easy to use, no ads
QR Code Reader	Recognize QR code from photo	Supports multiple code formats
ịCheck Scan	Scan QR & check product	Useful for anti-counterfeit stamps in Vietnam

Conclude

QScanning QR codes on Android is becoming simpler and simpler as most of today's devices have this feature built into the camera or Google Lens. You can scan codes quickly and safely without having to install additional applications. In case your device is too old or needs advanced features, you can still choose reputable apps. Check and take advantage of the available features on your phone to save time and protect your privacy!