How to Use the iPhone 13 QR Code Scanner (Camera, Control Center, Photos)

Your iPhone 13 doesn’t need a separate app to read QR codes. The built-in Camera spots them automatically, and there’s also a dedicated Code Scanner you can add to Control Center. You can even pull a QR code out of a photo or screenshot you already have. Here’s how to use each method, plus what to check if scanning doesn’t work.

Quick Answer

Open the Camera app, point it at the QR code, and hold steady until a yellow link banner appears. Tap the banner to open the link. If nothing appears, make sure Settings > Camera > Scan QR Codes is turned on.

Method 1: Scan with the Camera App

1. Open Camera from the Home Screen, Lock Screen, or Control Center, and stay in Photo mode.
2. Point the rear camera at the QR code so it fits comfortably in the frame. You don’t need to press the shutter.
3. Wait a second for the yellow outline and banner to appear.
4. Check the address shown in the banner, then tap it to open the website, add a contact, join a Wi-Fi network, or whatever the code contains.

Tip: On iPhone 13 models, close-up codes can blur as the camera switches lenses. Step back a few inches and let the phone focus, or tap the code on screen to focus.

Method 2: Use Code Scanner in Control Center

Code Scanner opens a full-screen scanner with a flashlight button, which is handy in dim light, and it opens links in a quick in-app view.

1. Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center.
2. Look for the Code Scanner button (a small QR code icon). If it isn’t there, add it:
   • iOS 18 and later: press and hold an empty area of Control Center, tap Add a Control, and choose Code Scanner.
   • iOS 15 to 17: go to Settings > Control Center and tap the green + next to Code Scanner.
3. Tap Code Scanner, aim at the code, and it opens automatically.

Method 3: Scan a QR Code in a Photo or Screenshot

1. Open the photo or screenshot in the Photos app.
2. Tap the Live Text button (bottom right) if it appears, or press and hold directly on the QR code.
3. Tap the link that appears to open it.

This relies on Live Text, which the iPhone 13 supports on iOS 15 and later with a supported language selected.

If the iPhone 13 Won’t Scan QR Codes

• Turn on scanning: Settings > Camera > Scan QR Codes (on some iOS versions this appears as a Scan QR Codes toggle near the top).
• Clean the lens and improve lighting; use the flashlight in Code Scanner if needed.
• Change distance and angle. Hold the phone parallel to the code, not at a steep angle.
• Check Screen Time restrictions: Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps must allow Camera.
• Restart the phone and update iOS in Settings > General > Software Update.
• The code may be damaged or low-contrast. Try another scanner or ask for the link directly.

Stay Safe with QR Codes

A QR code is just a link, and scammers sometimes place fake codes over real ones on parking meters or posters. Always read the web address in the banner before tapping, and don’t enter payment or login details on a page you reached from an unexpected code.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a QR code app on iPhone 13?

No. The Camera and Code Scanner handle standard QR codes. Third-party apps are only needed for special formats.

Can the front camera scan QR codes?

Yes, the Camera app can detect codes with the front camera too, though the rear camera usually focuses faster.

How do I share Wi-Fi with a QR code?

Scanning a Wi-Fi QR code shows a Join Network banner. Tap it to connect without typing the password.

Summary

1. Open Camera, point it at the code, and tap the yellow banner.
2. Or use Code Scanner in Control Center.
3. Use Live Text in Photos for saved images.
4. Turn on Scan QR Codes in Camera settings if nothing happens.