How to Scan a QR Code on Samsung

This article explains how to scan a QR code on Samsung. All Samsung devices have QR code scanning abilities, but your options depend on the device you have.

Scan QR Codes With the Camera App

Modern Samsung device (Android 9 or later) include built-in QR scanning functionality. Here's how to make sure the option is enabled and how to use the Camera app to read QR codes:

1. Open the Camera app.

2. Tap the Settings gear.
   

3. Turn on Scan QR codes if it's not already enabled. You only have to do this once.

   

4. Go back to the Camera app and point it at the QR code.

5. Hold the camera still for a few seconds. The app will read the QR code. Tap the pop-up window to follow the link.

   

Scan QR Codes via Quick Settings

Samsung devices with Android 9 and up also have a QR scanner shortcut in Quick Settings. It uses the Camera app, so it's similar to the method above, but this technique might be a little faster.

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen twice to open Quick Settings.
   

2. Tap Scan QR code.

   If you don't see this tile, swipe right and tap Add (+), then drag it into your tiles.

3. When the Camera app opens, point it at the QR code to scan it.

   If the QR Code doesn't scan, tap the Settings gear and make sure Scan QR codes is enabled.

   

Scan QR Codes With Samsung Bixby Vision

If you have an older Samsung device, you can scan QR codes using Bixby Vision:

1. Open the Camera app.

2. Tap Bixby Vision. Tap Allow if prompted.
   

3. Swipe left to go to the QR Code scanner.

4. Point your camera at the QR code to scan it.

   

Scan QR Codes in a Web Browser or From Your Photos

If you have a photo of a QR code, or you if see a QR code online, you can scan it using the Samsung Internet app.

1. Take a screenshot or photo of the QR code you want to scan.

2. Open the Samsung Internet app.
   

3. Tap the three-line menu.
   

4. Tap Settings.
   

   If you see the QR code scanner in the pop-up window, tap it and skip to step 9.

   

5. Tap Layout and menu > Customize Menu.

   On some devices, tap Useful features in the Settings menu to enable the QR code reader.

   

6. Tap and hold QR code scanner, then drag it into the menu.

7. Tap Back (<) to return to the browser.

   

8. Tap the three-line menu again, then tap QR code scanner (you might have to scroll down in the pop-up menu to find it). Give the app permission to use your camera if prompted.

   

9. Use your camera to scan a QR code, or tap the Photo icon to choose a photo on your device.

10. Choose a photo or screenshot of a QR code. Your phone will automatically scan it and open the link in the browser.

    

Why Does My Samsung Not Scan QR Codes?

Check your camera's settings to make sure QR scanning is enabled. Your Samsung device may not support all of the methods outlined above. If none of them work for you, download an app for scanning QR codes on Android, such as QR Code Reader.

Other possible reasons you can't scan a QR code include:

• You're holding your camera at an angle.
• Your phone is too close or too far away.
• The light is too dim.
• The camera lens is dirty.
• The code is too small or blurry.
• The QR code link has expired.
  
• The QR code is invalid.