Guide · By DueTrack Studio · Updated 2026-10-29
How to scan a QR code on iPhone (and check it's safe)
On iPhone, open the Camera app and point it at the QR code; a banner appears with the link. You can also add the Code Scanner to Control Center. To scan a code from a photo or screenshot, use a scanner app that reads images. Before tapping the banner, check the web address — or use a scanner that checks links for scams first.
How do you scan with the Camera app?
- Open Camera.
- Point it at the code for a second or two.
- Read the address in the banner before tapping it.
Can you scan a QR code from a photo?
Yes, with an app that scans images from your photo library — useful for codes in screenshots or emails.
What can a QR code do besides open a website?
- Join a Wi-Fi network.
- Add a contact.
- Open a map location.
- Start a payment or a 2FA setup.
Questions
My iPhone camera won't scan a QR code. What do I do?
Make sure the code is well lit and fully in frame, and that code scanning is enabled in Camera settings. A dedicated scanner app can also read codes from photos.