Features of scanning QR codes on iPhone and iPad

The most important advantage of any QR code is the support for various content types. They can contain different types of data, including texts, links, PDF files, and more. One user adds the desired file or URL to the QR code, and another scans it with their mobile device.

The iOS operating system recognizes these content types and offers the appropriate actions. So you can access the information as quickly and easily as possible.

We suggest you learn more about the key features of scanning QR codes on iPad and iPhone.

#1. Built-in support for reading QR codes via camera

Devices with the iOS 11 operating system version and higher, including iPhone and iPad, now have built-in support for scanning QR codes via the camera. You just need to launch the camera app, and it will recognize the code within seconds. A notification will then appear on the screen, allowing you to follow the link or perform another action.

This means that iPad and iPhone users do not need to install a separate QR code scanner application. Unlike other operating systems and manufacturers of mobile gadgets, Apple  implements this function in all current models. As a result, the process of scanning QR codes on iOS is faster and more convenient.

Please note: You can turn off the automatic QR code recognition via camera in the iOS settings. If this option is disabled, and you need to scan the code, you can either enable it or use another scanning method.

#2. Easy scanning via the pre-installed QR code scanner

iOS has a separate tool 'QR code scanner' that can be activated for quick access. To do this, go to Settings, select 'Control Center', find 'QR code scanner' in the 'More controls' section, and tap the plus symbol.

Now, to scan a QR code on an iPhone, swipe down from the upper-right corner of the screen (on iPhone X and newer) or swipe up (on older models). After tapping the 'QR code scanner' icon, point the camera at the code image. The system will automatically recognize it and suggest an appropriate action depending on the content format.

While most users prefer using the camera for scanning QR codes, the built-in QR code reader can be more practical in certain situations. For example, if you have the automatic QR code recognition function disabled and don’t want to change the settings, or if the camera is already being used for recording video, and you urgently need to scan the code without leaving the shooting mode.

#3. Easy QR code opening in other applications

Imagine that a colleague sent you a QR code to join a Zoom meeting via WhatsApp, or a client shared a project via a QR code for Google Docs. It's unlikely that you have a second iPhone to perform a standard scan. In this case, it's convenient to read QR codes through other mobile applications, a feature provided by iOS.

Many users open QR codes through apps like Safari, Telegram, WhatsApp, and more. For instance, if a QR code appears on a webpage while using a browser, you can scan it directly without using the camera. Simply press and hold the image of the code, and iOS will recognize it, displaying a context menu with the option to follow the link or choose another action.

Another great example is reading QR codes from the gallery. If you have saved an image for scanning on your device, for example, downloaded it or made a screenshot, then you can scan it directly from your gallery app. To do this, open the QR code image, click on the 'Live text' icon or launch, or use the 'Recognize QR code' function.

The focus of iOS developers on user safety when scanning QR codes on iPhone and iPad deserves special mention. If the code leads to a potentially harmful website, iOS will alert you about the suspicious link, minimizing risks like phishing and other online frauds.

So, any user can easily open QR codes on iOS devices, with three practical options available directly through your gadget.