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QR Code Not Working? Here’s What You Need to Know

April 6, 2025
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QR codes have revolutionized how we access information, connect with brands, and make payments. However, it’s incredibly frustrating when a QR code is not working. Whether you’re at a restaurant trying to scan a menu or setting up a digital business card, scanning issues can derail your plans fast. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common reasons a QR code won’t scan, how to fix them, and what to do if your QR code is not working on Android or iPhone.

Why Is My QR Code Not Working?

There are several reasons why a QR code is not working. The most frequent causes include blurriness, color issues, sizing problems, placement mistakes, or even expired or broken links. But don’t worry—each issue can be easily resolved with the right strategy.

1. Poor Contrast With Background

The design might look sleek, but if your QR code blends in with its background, it becomes invisible to scanners.

✅ Pro Tip: Ensure at least 40% contrast between the background and foreground. High-contrast designs help scanners do their job.

Poor Contrast With Background

2. Overcrowding the QR Code

Trying to pack too much data into your QR code? That’s a common reason why a QR code won’t scan. The more content, the denser and harder the code is to read.

✅ Tip: Use dynamic QR codes instead of static ones. These allow you to host complex data externally and keep your QR simple.

Overcrowding the QR Code

3. QR Code Too Small or Too Large

A QR code that is either too small or too large won’t scan properly. If you place a tiny QR code on a business card or a huge one on a billboard, scanners might not pick it up.

✅ Rule of Thumb: Use the formula QR size = Distance / 10. The minimum size for a scannable QR code is 2x2 cm.

4. Blurry QR Code Images

One of the leading causes of a QR code not scanning is poor image quality. If you’ve resized your QR code image incorrectly or printed it in a low resolution, it may appear pixelated or blurry. This makes it hard for your phone’s camera to interpret.

✅ Solution: Always download and use high-resolution formats like PNG or SVG for your QR codes. Test print a sample before deploying.

Blurry QR Code Images

5. Inverted Colors

Inverting the standard black-on-white QR design can make the QR code not work. Scanners are designed to read dark patterns on light backgrounds. If you flip these colors, many apps won’t recognize the code.

✅ Fix: Stick to a light background with a dark foreground. Avoid making the foreground lighter than the background.

inverted Colors qr code

6. Wrong Placement

Yes, where you place your QR code matters. If it’s hidden behind glass, near a reflective surface, or placed too high/low, users may miss it entirely—or worse, can’t scan QR code due to lighting issues.

✅ Best Practice: Keep the QR code at eye level and away from shiny surfaces. Place it in an area with good lighting.

Phone Won’t Scan QR Code: Common Device Issues

Still stuck wondering, “Why won’t my phone scan a QR code?” It might not be the QR code—it could be your phone.

1. Camera Permissions or Settings

Sometimes your phone’s camera isn’t set up for scanning.

✅ iPhone: Go to Settings > Camera and enable “Scan QR Codes.”

✅ Android: Make sure you have the latest Android version and that Google Lens or camera scanning is enabled.

scan qr code with Iphone / Android

2. Lighting Conditions

Your camera can’t read what it can’t see. Poor lighting makes it difficult to scan.

✅ Quick Fix: Move to a brighter location or use your phone’s flashlight.

3. Dirty or Damaged Lens

This might sound basic, but a smudged lens can be the culprit when a QR code is not scanning.

✅ Solution: Clean your lens and try again.

Why QR Code Not Working on Android?

If your QR code is not working on Android, the issue might be app-specific or related to your Android version.

✅ Troubleshoot:

  • Try scanning with Google Lens.
  • Download a third-party QR scanning app.
  • Update your Android OS.

Still thinking “Why can’t I scan a QR code?” Try a different device or reprint the QR code.

Expired QR Code or Broken Link

A QR code not working might also stem from a broken or expired link.

✅ Fix:

  • Test your links before printing.
  • Use dynamic QR codes to update destinations even after printing.

Over-Customized QR Code

Too much design can hinder function. If your QR code is highly stylized with logos, images, or extreme patterns, it may no longer be readable.

✅ Best Practice: Keep it simple. A clean, scannable design with subtle branding works best.

Testing Your QR Code

Before you deploy or print your QR code, always test it using multiple devices and apps. What scans on your iPhone might not scan on an older Android. A few seconds of testing can save you a lot of trouble.

✅ Pro tip: Scan from different angles and distances. Also test under various lighting conditions.

Final Thoughts

A QR code not working can be frustrating, but it’s rarely unfixable. With a little attention to detail and pre-testing, you can avoid most issues. Whether it’s your phone won’t scan QR code or your QR code not scanning at an event, now you know how to troubleshoot quickly and effectively.

So the next time someone asks, “Why is my QR code not working?”—you’ll have the answers ready.

Need a better way to share your contact info? Try using a business card with QR code integration like KADO.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are hesitating, do not worry - we are here to explain everything you might want to know. Let us help!

  • What is a digital business card?

    A digital business card is a modern and innovative way to exchanging contact information instantly via a scannable QR code, field communication NFC, or a simple link. Unlike paper cards, an NFC digital business card allows you to update contact information like your phone number or social media profiles in real time, add interactive business card features, and reduce your environmental impact with a custom nfc business card.

  • What can I include in my digital business card?

    Your electronic business card, should contain your full name, job title, company name, and essential contact information such as email and phone number. You can also add social media links to your social media profiles, communication channels like WhatsApp or Calendly, custom buttons, and even video content. With KADO, you can fully customize your smart business cards design, including colors, logos, and company branding for a custom nfc business card with advanced business card features.

  • Can I create a digital business card for free?

    Yes! KADO offers a free version that lets you create your card business cards from scratch, add links, and share your details digitally via a scannable QR code. The free plan includes basic features, while advanced customization options like color themes and premium integrations are available in the paid plans. You can create your digital business card for free here..

  • How to create a digital business card with QR code?

    Every KADO digital business card automatically includes a scannable QR code that can be scanned to instantly share your details. You can find your QR code in the app, under the "Exchange" section, or access it through your web profile. For more information on how to create business cards online, visit our website. Every KADO NFC digital business card automatically includes a scannable QR code that can be scanned to instantly exchanging contact information. You can find your QR code in the smart business cards app, under the "Exchange" section, or access it through your web profile. For more information on how to create best nfc business cards online, visit our website.

  • What is the best digital business card app?

    There are many options, but KADO stands out due to its unique features and enterprise capabilities:

    • It supports video, personalized buttons, and links—even in the free tier.
    • It integrates natively with HubSpot, Salesforce, and Microsoft Dynamics for seamless contact management.
    • It offers full design customization, including colors, logos, and company branding.
    • It is built for enterprises, offering advanced security, role-based access control, and an admin dashboard for managing team-wide digital business cards.

  • Is my data safe with KADO?

    Absolutely. KADO ensures maximum security by using encrypted cloud storage, role-based access control, and eliminating public IPs that could compromise your data and contact information.

  • Is KADO suitable for businesses?

    Yes! KADO is designed to scale for businesses of all sizes, offering centralized contact management, company-wide card digital business card distribution, and role-based permissions to protect sensitive company data

  • How to create an NFC business card?

    KADO offers NFC-enabled digital business cards that allow you to share your details by simply holding the code business card up to a compatible smartphone. Unlike traditional business cards, these eliminate the need to scan the QR code or manually enter contact information. You can request your NFC business card directly on our website. KADO offers NFC digital business cards that allow you to exchange contact information by simply tapping the card with an NFC chip up to a compatible smartphone, such as an Android phone. Unlike paper cards, these best NFC business cards that eliminate the need to scan the QR code or manually enter contact information. You can request your custom nfc business card directly on our website, leveraging nfc technology for seamless business card features.

  • Do I need an app to use KADO?

    No, KADO works perfectly on mobile and desktop browsers, allowing you to share your virtual business card without downloading an app. However, for advanced features, KADO’s digital business card app lets you save your card QR code in a digital wallet, quickly access your created QR code, and share your details even without an internet connection.

  • How can I share my KADO digital business card?

    You can share your KADO digital business card in a variety of ways, making it easy to connect with others. The most common methods include showing the QR code for scanning, sharing your unique link via email or text, or using an NFC card. The main advantage is that the recipient does not need an app to receive or save your contact information.

  • Does KADO integrate with my CRM?

    Yes, KADO offers CRM integrations to improve your workflow. KADO CRM integrations include HubSpot, Salesforce, and Microsoft Dynamics, allowing for automatic contact syncing and interaction tracking.

  • Can I use my KADO digital business card without an internet connection?

    Yes! If you have saved your digital business cards saved in your mobile wallet or as a widget on your device, you can still share your information via QR code even without an internet connection. This allows you to always be ready to network, whether you are at an event, or not.

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