Google Pixel phones can scan paper documents into clean PDFs, read QR codes, and copy text from anything the camera sees, all without extra apps. The main tools are the Google Drive scanner for documents, the Pixel Camera and Google Lens for QR codes and text, and a Scan QR code Quick Settings tile. This guide covers each on current Pixel models, including the Pixel 7 and later.
Quick Answer
Documents: open the Drive app, tap + New > Scan, point the camera at the page and tap the shutter. Tap Done to save a PDF. QR codes: open the Camera app, point it at the code and tap the link that appears.
Scan a Document to PDF With Google Drive
- Open the Drive app (preinstalled on Pixel).
- Tap + New and choose Scan. (You can also tap the camera icon on the Drive home screen if shown.)
- Place the document on a flat, contrasting surface with good light.
- Point the camera at the page. Drive detects the edges and may capture automatically; otherwise tap the shutter button.
- Adjust the crop, apply a filter (such as Auto or Black and white), and tap + to add more pages.
- Tap Done, name the file, choose a folder and tap Save.
Drive saves scans as PDFs and can recognize the text so you can search for it later. To share, tap the three dots next to the file > Share or Send a copy.
Shortcut: touch and hold the Drive app icon and choose Scan, or drag that option to your home screen.
Scan a QR Code
With the Camera App
- Open Camera and point it at the QR code.
- Tap the link or action that appears on screen.
If nothing appears, open Camera settings and make sure Google Lens suggestions (or similar) is turned on.
With Quick Settings
- Swipe down twice from the top of the screen.
- Tap Scan QR code. If it isn’t there, tap the pencil (Edit) icon and drag the tile into Quick Settings.
- Point the camera at the code.
On recent Android versions you can also add a QR code scanner shortcut to the lock screen in Settings > Display > Lock screen.
Scan Text or Objects With Google Lens
- In the Camera app, tap the Lens icon (or open the Google app and tap the camera icon in the search bar).
- Choose Text to copy words, Translate to translate signs and menus, or Search to identify objects.
- Circle to Search: touch and hold the navigation bar or handle, then circle anything on screen to search or copy it.
Scan Photos and Receipts
- For old printed photos, the free PhotoScan by Google Photos app reduces glare by combining several shots.
- For receipts, Drive’s scanner works well; save them to a “Receipts” folder.
Tips for Better Scans
- Use even light and avoid shadows from your phone.
- Hold the phone parallel to the page.
- Clean the camera lens.
- Choose the Black and white filter for text documents to keep files small and sharp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are my scans saved?
In Google Drive, in the folder you chose (My Drive by default). They’re available on any device signed in to your Google account.
Can I scan without an internet connection?
You can capture the scan, and Drive uploads it when you’re back online.
Do these steps work on other Android phones?
Yes. Drive, Lens and QR scanning work on most Android phones, though menu names may differ.
Summary
- Drive > + New > Scan for documents.
- Camera or the Scan QR code tile for QR codes.
- Google Lens or Circle to Search for text and objects.
- Save scans as PDFs in Drive and share them.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.