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How to Scan QR Codes from a Picture: A Step-by-Step Guide

September 22, 2024
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QR codes are everywhere—from product packaging to event tickets. They’re handy for quickly accessing websites, contact information, and more. But what if you have a QR code in a picture and need to scan it? No worries! This guide will walk you through how to scan QR codes from a picture on both iPhone and Android devices. We’ll also cover scanning from screenshots and share tips for a smooth experience.

Understanding QR Codes and Their Functionality

Before diving into how to scan QR codes from pictures, let’s review what QR codes are and how they work.

  • What is a QR Code?
    A QR code (Quick Response code) is a type of barcode that stores information. You scan it with your phone's camera to quickly access data, like URLs or contact details.
  • How QR Codes Work
    QR codes encode data in a square pattern of black and white squares. When you scan it with your phone, the QR code reader decodes the pattern and presents the stored information.
  • Common Uses for QR Codes
    QR codes are used for various purposes, such as linking to websites, saving contact information, or accessing promotional offers.

How to Scan a QR Code from a Picture on iPhone

Scanning QR codes from pictures on an iPhone is straightforward. Here’s how:

- Using the Built-in Camera App

  1. Open the Photos app and find the picture with the QR code.
  2. Take a screenshot of the picture with the QR code if needed.
  3. Open the Camera app and focus on the screenshot or picture with the QR code.
  4. The Camera app should recognize the QR code and display a notification with the link or information.

qr code camera

- Using the Photos App

  1. Open the Photos app and select the picture with the QR code.
  2. Tap the share icon and select “Copy Link” if the QR code contains a URL, or use an external QR code scanning app for better results.

- Using Third-Party Apps

  1. Download a QR code scanner app from the App Store, such as QR Code Reader or Scanner Pro.
  2. Open the app and select the option to scan from a photo or gallery.
  3. Choose the picture with the QR code, and the app will scan and decode it.

How to Scan a QR Code from a Picture on Android

Android users can follow these steps to scan QR codes from pictures:

- Using Google Lens

  1. Open the Google Photos app and find the picture with the QR code.
  2. Tap on the Google Lens icon.
  3. Google Lens will analyze the picture and display the QR code's information or link.

scan qr code android

- Using Gallery Apps

  1. Open the Gallery app and select the picture with the QR code.
  2. Use the built-in QR code scanning feature if available, or download a QR code scanner app for enhanced functionality.

- Using QR Code Scanner Apps

  1. Download a QR code scanner app from the Google Play Store, like QR Code Reader or Barcode Scanner.
  2. Open the app and select the option to scan from an image or gallery.
  3. Choose the picture with the QR code, and the app will decode the QR code’s information.

How to Scan QR Code from Screenshot

If you have a QR code in a screenshot, here’s how to scan it:

- Scanning QR Codes from iPhone Screenshots

  1. Open the Photos app and locate the screenshot with the QR code.
  2. Use the Camera app to focus on the screenshot if it’s not too blurry.
  3. Alternatively, use a QR code scanning app to scan directly from the screenshot.

Scan QR Code image

- Scanning QR Codes from Android Screenshots

  1. Open the Google Photos app or Gallery and find the screenshot with the QR code.
  2. Tap on Google Lens or use a QR code scanning app to decode the QR code from the screenshot.

how to scan qr code screenshot android

Additional Tools and Apps

For better results and additional features, consider these tools and apps:

- QR Code Scanner Apps

Recommended Apps: QR Code Reader, Scanner Pro, QR Code Scanner

Features: Enhanced scanning capabilities, history tracking, and more.

- Online QR Code Scanners

How to Use Them: Upload the image with the QR code to online tools like QR Code Scanner.

Scanning QR codes from pictures is a simple and effective way to access information quickly. Whether you’re using an iPhone or Android device, follow these steps to ensure a smooth scanning experience. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily decode QR codes from photos, screenshots, and more. Happy scanning!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  • A digital business card is a modern, virtual way to share your contact details instantly using QR codes, NFC, or a simple link. Unlike traditional paper cards, a digital business card allows you to update your information in real-time, add interactive elements, and reduce environmental waste.

  • Your digital business card should contain your full name, job title, company, and essential contact details such as email and phone number. You can also add social media links, communication channels like WhatsApp or Calendly, custom buttons, and even video content. With KADO, you can fully customize your card’s design, including colors, company branding, and avatars, ensuring a professional and engaging digital presence.

  • Yes! KADO offers a free version that allows you to design your card from scratch, add links, and share it digitally with ease. The free plan includes essential features, while advanced customization options such as color themes and premium integrations are available in paid tiers. You may create your digital business card for free here..

  • Every KADO digital business card automatically includes a QR code that can be scanned for instant sharing. You can easily find your QR code in the app under the "Exchange" screen or access it through your web profile. If you want to learn more about creating a QR code business card, visit our website.

  • 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.

  • Absolutely. KADO takes security seriously by using encrypted cloud storage, restricting access through role-based permissions, and ensuring there are no public IPs that expose your data. Additionally, KADO complies with industry-leading security standards, including SOC 2 and GDPR, to protect your business and personal information at all times.

  • Yes! KADO is built with enterprises in mind, offering solutions tailored to businesses of all sizes. It provides centralized contact management, team-wide card distribution, and role-based permissions to ensure that sensitive company data remains protected. Administrators can also use a user-friendly dashboard to manage employees’ digital business cards efficiently.

  • KADO offers NFC-enabled digital business cards that allow you to share your contact details instantly by tapping your card on any NFC-compatible smartphone. Unlike traditional business cards, these NFC cards eliminate the need for scanning QR codes or manually entering contact details. You can request your NFC Business Card directly through our website.

  • No, KADO works seamlessly on both mobile and desktop browsers, allowing you to share your contact details without requiring an app. However, for enhanced functionality, KADO also offers a mobile app where you can store your card in an in-app wallet, quickly access your QR code, and share your card even without an internet connection.

  • You can share your KADO digital business card in multiple ways, making it easier to connect with others. The most common methods include displaying your QR code for scanning, sharing your unique link via email or text, or using an NFC-enabled card. The best part is that your recipient does not need an app to receive or save your contact details.

  • Yes, KADO offers seamless CRM integrations to enhance your workflow. KADO CRM integrations include HubSpot, Salesforce, and Microsoft Dynamics, allowing you to sync contacts and track interactions automatically. Additionally, KADO supports Zapier, enabling integration with over 100 other tools, making it an excellent fit for businesses that rely on automation.

  • Yes! If you have saved your digital business cards in your mobile wallet or as widgets on your device, you can still share your contact details even without an internet connection. This ensures that you are always ready to network, whether you are at an event, on a plane, or in an area with poor connectivity.

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