How-To

How to Scan a QR Code From a Picture

By Jeff Butts

Updated January 16, 2024

We love QR codes, don’t we? But, wouldn’t it be nice if you could scan that QR code straight from a picture? Actually, you can, so let’s look at how to do it.

QR codes are those magic little squares you see everywhere these days — on restaurant menus, flashy advertisements, and even on digital business cards. They’re a neat trick for zapping info straight into your phone. But hang on a minute; what if you spot a QR code while scrolling through Instagram or browsing a company’s website on your phone? You can’t exactly use your phone’s camera to snap it when it’s already on your screen, right? Fear not, tech adventurers, because you should be able to scan that QR code straight from a screenshot or picture. Let me guide you through the mystical world of scanning a QR code from a picture already on your smartphone!

Can I Really Scan a QR Code From My Camera Roll?

Ever wondered if you can scan a QR code from your camera roll? After all, we’ve discussed creating the codes from various apps like Google Sheets as well as how to create a code for a website. So what about scanning them from a photograph?

You absolutely can do that! Whether you’re team iOS or team Android, you probably don’t need any fancy extra apps. Just screenshot that QR code and follow these easy steps for your device.

How to Scan QR Codes from Photos on iOS Devices:

Apple has waved its magic wand to make it as easy as pie to scan a QR code from a picture in your photo gallery. Whether it’s a snapshot of a menu with a QR code or someone’s TikTok code, you can grab that link straight from Photos.

Here’s what you do:

1. Open your Photos app and find that picture or screenshot with the QR code.
2. Spot the Live Text button at the bottom, right? Give it a tap.
   
3. Now tap the QR code, then Open in Safari. Watch as the link magically opens. Voilà!
   

How to Scan a QR Code from a Picture on Android Devices:

Now, Android likes to keep things spicy, so not all devices have a built-in “scan-from-photo” feature, and the steps might differ based on your device model.

If you’re rocking a Google device, here’s the trick:

1. Whip out your camera app and switch to Google Assistant mode.
2. Pick a picture from your gallery flaunting the QR code.
3. Tap the link that appears above the QR code. Easy!

For other Android devices, follow these steps:

1. Open your Gallery app and select the photo with the QR code.
2. If your device offers it, tap the framed text icon near the bottom right of the image.
   
3. Tap the QR code, then Open link.
   

If there’s no text icon, tap the share icon instead. You can then choose Google Search Image to let Google Lens work its magic on the QR code.

Even Though it’s Easy (or maybe because it’s so easy), Tread Carefully

Now, bear in mind these nifty little codes have a bit of a dark side. This risk doesn’t lose any of its bite just because you’re scanning the QR code from your camera roll.

Since you can’t really see what link or information that QR code will send you, there are a few risks to be aware of.

1. Sneaky Links: Imagine QR codes as mystery boxes. You never know what you’re gonna get! Sometimes, they might take you on a not-so-fun trip to Scamville or Malwareland. These codes can be like those shady characters in movies who look fine but lead you straight into trouble.
2. The Peeping Toms: Some QR codes are the digital equivalent of nosy neighbors. They sneak a peek at your data, like where you’re scanning from and what device you’re using. They might even gossip about you with other data collectors. Talk about an invasion of privacy!
3. Scam Alert: QR codes can sometimes be the high-tech version of a con artist. They might dress up as a legit payment option, but whoops! You just paid for a scammer’s fancy dinner instead of your own.
4. The Old Switcheroo: Imagine going to scan a QR code for a menu and ending up on a website selling you magic beans. Some tricksters replace the good QR codes with their villainous twins, leading you astray.
5. Digital Pickpockets: In rare cases, these codes can act like sneaky thieves, breaking your phone’s security through shady websites. Not cool QR codes, are not cool!
6. The Oops Factor: Many folks scan QR codes like there’s no tomorrow, not realizing they might be stepping into a digital minefield. It’s like eating mystery food without checking if you’re allergic to it.

So, what’s the game plan? First, use a QR scanner that’s like a digital bodyguard, showing you where you’re headed before you get there. Be a bit like a detective — cautious and curious about the QR codes you’re scanning. And spreading the word about these QR quirks helps everyone stay safer.

And there you have it, folks! Whether you’re an Apple aficionado or an Android enthusiast, scanning QR codes from your phone is a piece of cake. Or pie. Whichever you prefer, just make sure you keep your head about you and exercise caution when scanning those magic squares.