To turn your iPhone camera’s QR code scanner on or off, open Settings > Camera and switch Scan QR Codes on or off. When it’s on, pointing the Camera app at a QR code shows a yellow link banner you can tap. You can also add the Code Scanner control to Control Center for a dedicated scanner that works even when camera scanning is off.
Quick Answer
Settings > Camera > Scan QR Codes on or off. For a separate scanner, add Code Scanner in Control Center.
Steps to Turn QR Scanning On or Off
- Open Settings.
- Tap Camera.
- Turn Scan QR Codes on or off.
How to Scan a Code
- Open Camera and point it at the code, holding steady for a moment.
- Tap the yellow banner that appears.
- Check the link before you act on it, especially for payments or sign-ins.
Add the Code Scanner to Control Center
Open Control Center, tap + (or Settings > Control Center on older iOS), and add Code Scanner. Tap it to scan without opening Camera.
Options Compared
| Method | Best for |
|---|---|
| Camera with Scan QR Codes on | Quick everyday scans |
| Code Scanner in Control Center | Scanning with a flashlight, or when camera scanning is off |
| Photos app | Codes in screenshots; long-press the code in the photo |
Need a spirit level? See where the level is on iPhone.
Troubleshooting
- Nothing happens: Make sure Scan QR Codes is on, clean the lens and move closer or further away.
- Codes in text or images not detected: Check Live Text in Settings > General > Language & Region.
- Sharing Wi-Fi with a QR code from a PC? See sharing Wi-Fi with a QR code.
- Other scanners: See using Google Lens. For invite codes, see joining GroupMe with a QR code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which iPhones can scan QR codes?
Any iPhone running iOS 11 or later can scan with the Camera app.
Is scanning QR codes safe?
The scan itself is safe, but the link may not be. Check the web address in the banner before tapping.
Why turn it off?
Some people prefer the camera not to pop up link banners while taking photos.
Summary
- Open Settings > Camera.
- Turn Scan QR Codes on or off.
- Tap the banner to open a scanned link.
- Use Code Scanner in Control Center as an alternative.
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.