The short version
Open the Camera app and point at the QR.
Step-by-step
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Step 1
Open the Camera app
Tap the Camera icon on your home screen or in Control Center.
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Step 2
Aim the iPad at the QR code
Hold the iPad so the QR is fully in the frame — auto-focus does the rest.
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Step 3
Tap the yellow link banner
iPadOS shows the QR's destination at the top of the screen. Tap to open.
If it doesn't work
- iPads have larger cameras than iPhones — you may need to hold the iPad slightly farther from the QR to get a focus.
- Older iPads (iPad Air 1, iPad mini 1-3, etc.) running iOS 10 or earlier need a separate scanner app.
- Settings → Camera → "Scan QR Codes" should be on; turn it on if disabled.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a separate app to scan QR codes on iPad?
No, as long as you're on iPadOS 11 or later. The built-in Camera app handles QR scanning natively — point and tap the link banner.
Can I scan a QR from a photo on iPad?
Yes, since iPadOS 16. Open the photo in the Photos app — if it contains a QR, you'll see a small QR icon. Tap to open the link.
Why won't my iPad scan the QR?
Check that "Scan QR Codes" is on under Settings → Camera. The QR may also be too small in the frame — move closer or print it bigger. Glare on a screen breaks scanning; tilt the iPad slightly.