Questions about QR codes and the app
Short answers about scanning, making codes and staying safe. Each guide below goes into detail.
Guides
What is the best QR code scanner app?
What to look for in a scanner app: speed, barcodes, a link check and privacy.
Read the guideCan I create QR codes for free?
Make QR codes in your browser or in the app, and see what Pro adds.
Read the guideHow to scan QR codes
Scan with the iPhone Camera, Control Center, Android or a scanner app.
Read the guideWi-Fi QR code generator
Make a code that lets guests join your network without a password.
Read the guideBarcode scanner app
Scan EAN and UPC barcodes and look up the product and price.
Read the guideQR code scanner for Android
Scan on Android with the camera, Google Lens or our app.
Read the guideScan a QR code from an image
Read a code in a screenshot or a photo on iPhone and Android.
Read the guideQR code safety
Spot a phishing QR code and check a link before you open it.
Read the guideCommon questions
Can I scan a QR code without an app?
Yes. The Camera app on iPhone reads QR codes, and many Android phones read them in the camera or with Google Lens. A scanner app adds a scan history, barcode lookups and a link safety check.
Do QR codes expire?
A static QR code does not expire. It holds its content directly, so it works as long as the content is valid. Some online services sell dynamic codes that point to their server, and those codes stop when the service stops.
What is the difference between a QR code and a barcode?
A barcode holds a short number in one row of lines, such as the EAN-13 number on a product. A QR code is a square grid that holds much more data, such as a link, a Wi-Fi login or a contact card.
Why does my phone not scan a QR code?
Clean the lens, add light, hold the phone steady and move it until the full code is in the frame. A code that is damaged, too small or has low contrast can fail. Our guide on how to scan QR codes has more fixes.
Is the online QR code generator free?
Yes. The generator on this site is free and needs no account. You choose the type, type the content and download a PNG.
Get QR Code Scanner on your phone.
Free to download. Works on iPhone with iOS 15.5 or later, and on Android.