The short version
Open the Camera app and point at the QR — most phones detect it automatically.
Step-by-step
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Step 1
Open the Camera app
Find it on your home screen or app drawer. Most modern Android cameras have QR detection enabled by default.
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Step 2
Point at the QR code
Hold the camera steady so the QR fills a good portion of the frame. The camera focuses automatically.
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Step 3
Tap the link or banner
A pop-up or on-screen prompt shows the destination. Tap it to open the link, contact, or Wi-Fi join.
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Step 4
If Camera doesn't detect: use Google Lens
Open the Google app, tap the Lens icon (looks like a camera with a circle), point at the QR. Lens decodes any QR code on any reasonably modern Android phone.
If it doesn't work
- Some manufacturer cameras hide QR detection in Settings → "Smart" / "Suggestions" — turn it on.
- If your phone runs Android 7 or earlier, neither Camera nor Lens may work natively — install a scanner from Google Play.
- Google Assistant's "scan QR code" command works on most Pixels and Samsung phones with Google services.
Frequently asked questions
Do all Android phones have a built-in QR scanner?
No — built-in QR scanning depends on the manufacturer's Camera app and the Android version. Most phones from Samsung, Google, OnePlus, and Xiaomi released since 2018 detect QR codes automatically. Older phones or budget devices may need Google Lens or a third-party app.
How do I scan a QR code with Google Lens?
Open the Google app, tap the Lens icon to the right of the search bar, point your camera at the QR, and tap the result. Lens works on any Android device with the Google app installed.
What if my Android Camera app doesn't detect the QR?
First check your Camera Settings for a QR code or scan toggle. If that's off, turn it on. If your Camera doesn't have the option, use Google Lens or install a free scanner like "QR Code Reader" from the Play Store.