How to scan QR codes on Samsung and iPhone devices

QR codes have become ubiquitous in our daily lives, used for everything from accessing restaurant menus to logging into websites and even making payments. Both Samsung and iPhone devices make it incredibly easy to scan these codes, often without the need for any additional apps. In this article, we’ll explore how to use the built-in QR code scanning features on Samsung and iPhone devices, as well as recommend some third-party apps for enhanced scanning capabilities.
Scanning QR Codes on iPhone Devices
Built-in Camera App:
Open the Camera App: Simply unlock your iPhone and open the Camera app. You don’t need to select any particular mode as the camera is automatically set to detect QR codes.
Point the Camera at the QR Code: Hold your device so that the QR code appears in the viewfinder in the Camera app. Your phone should recognize the QR code and display a notification.
Tap the Notification: Once the QR code is recognized, a notification will pop up at the top of the screen. Tap on this notification to be taken to the link embedded within the QR code.
Control Center:
iOS 12 and later also offers a QR code scanner in the Control Center. Go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls, then tap the '+' next to Code Scanner. You can then access this scanner directly from the Control Center.
Scanning QR Codes on Samsung Devices
Built-in Camera App:
Activate QR Code Scanning: On some Samsung models, you may need to enable QR scanning first. Open the Camera app, go to the settings (the gear icon), and ensure that Scan QR codes is enabled.
Open the Camera App: Like with the iPhone, you don’t need to switch to any specific mode.
Point and Scan: Point the camera at the QR code, and it will automatically recognize and process the QR code. Tap on the pop-up message to open the link.
Recommended Third-Party QR Code Scanning Apps
While most modern smartphones are equipped with built-in QR scanning capabilities, third-party apps can offer additional features such as history tracking, the ability to scan barcodes, and more. Here are a few well-reviewed options:
NeoReader (available for both Android and iOS): A versatile scanner that can decode QR codes, bar codes, and even NFC tags.
QR Code Reader by Scan (iOS and Android): Offers a simple and straightforward approach to QR code scanning, including history saving and easy sharing options.
QR Droid (Android): Allows more complex actions like creating your own QR codes and accessing scanned content in innovative ways.
Conclusion
Scanning QR codes on Samsung and iPhone devices is typically a quick and straightforward process, thanks to the built-in camera apps. Whether you’re using the native features of your smartphone or prefer the additional functionalities of third-party apps, accessing the information embedded in QR codes is more accessible than ever. This seamless integration of technology into everyday activities not only saves time but also enhances our interactions with various services and products.