This guide will explain the complete steps of how to scan QR codes from images with absolute focus on precision.
Modern technology relies heavily on QR codes for users to obtain quick navigation to digital content through websites and available applications.
Most smartphone users understand the process of scanning QR codes through their camera at the moment but they are unaware they can also scan these codes from images saved on their devices.
This comprehensive guide shows how users should scan QR codes from images across iOS and Android operating systems while it answers user questions and recommends trustworthy applications for optimization.
Why Scan QR Codes from Images?
Scanning QR codes from saved images provides useful features under various circumstances.
- When you receive a QR code via email or messaging apps.
- If you take a screenshot of a QR code displayed on your computer or another device.
- When you save a QR code for later use but don’t have access to the original physical code.
This technique lets you retrieve code data whenever you need it since it does not require real-time scanning procedures.
How to Scan QR Codes from Images
Scanning QR codes from images is a convenient way to access information without needing to scan the code in real-time.
For iOS Devices
The following instruction demonstrates the process of extracting QR codes from image files.
For iOS Devices. Apple’s iOS devices come with built-in capabilities for scanning QR codes directly from images.
Here’s how:
Locate the Image:
Launch the Photos application on your iPhone or iPad to view the QR code located in one of your pictures.
Use Live Text:
- Open the image by tapping it, and the device will display the recognition tool if it supports Live Text versions later than iOS 15.
- You will see the Live Text ico,n which resembles a small box with lines at the bottom-right section of your screen.
- Tap the QR code within the image. The linked action or text appears instantly on that spot.
Access the Information:
Tapping on the link will automatically open the scanned content in Safari or a matching application.
For Android Devices
If you have an Android phone, particularly a new Android phone, then chances are good that you have many ways of scanning QR codes from images, depending on your device make and model as well as software version. Below are two common methods:
Using Google Lens
Google Lens comes integrated into most Android devices, and it is one of the simplest ways to scan QR codes from the image.
Open Google Photos:
Open your photo gallery and click the image with the QR code.
Activate Google Lens:
- Tap the small square with a dot (Lens icon) at the bottom of the screen.
- When the connection for Google Lens is established, it will analyze the picture and find any QR codes.
Follow Prompts:
After Google Lens recognizes the QR code, it will provide you with suitable options like opening a link, dialing a phone number or saving a contact.
Using Google Assistant
Another way to do this is through Google Assistant:
Launch Google Assistant:
To activate Google Assistant, hold down your home button or say “Hey Google.”
Select Image:
Select “What’s on my screen” in the interface of Google Assistant or manually upload an image with QR code in Google Assistant.
Access Embedded Content:
First, the assistant will process the image and then give you actionable options depending on the content of QR code.
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Using Third-Party Applications
If you don’t have an option for built-in scanning of QR codes from images on your device, there are a lot of third-party apps that can be used as an alternative.
Most of these apps come with some additional features like extra checking, history tracking, and batch scanning.
Best QR Code Scanner
QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play: Available for both iOS and Android.
- Scan QR codes from the saved images.
- It offers fast results, and it supports several barcode formats.
TrendMicro’s Safe QR Code Scanner: The program for which it is known for its emphasis on security. Checks potential threats in embedded links to scan QR codes.
QR Code Scanner by TeaCapps: A user-friendly interface with quick scanning capabilities. Also, it supports directly scanning from your gallery.
Kaspersky QR Scanner: Kaspersky Labs has developed this app, adding safety to the top by warning users if the links contain malicious content.
QuickMark Barcode Scanner: An app that is useful in reading multiple barcode formats and QR codes. Permits the scan from live camera input and saved images.
Comparison
| Application Name | Operating System | Key Features | Price | Average Rating |
| TrendMicro’s Safe QR Code Scanner | iOS & Android | Security-focused scanning | Free | 4.6/5 |
| QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play | iOS & Android | Fast results; supports multiple formats | Free (remove ads at $5.99) | 4.5/5 |
| Kaspersky QR Scanner | iOS & Android | Malicious link detection | Free | 4.4/5 |
| QuickMark Barcode Scanner | iOS & Android | Batch scanning; versatile barcode support | Free | 4.3/5 |
Is it possible to scan a QR code from a screenshot?
Indeed, you can scan screenshots that include QR codes whether you have native tools such as Google Lens (Android) or Live Text (iOS). If not, third-party apps can be used.
Does one need an app to scan a QR code from the photo gallery?
This is not always the case; some of these things are built into iOS and Android devices.
Nevertheless, they may provide some extra functionality, for instance, giving you a bit more accuracy, running more security checks, or maybe being faster.
Conclusion
Scanning QR codes from images is an efficient way to access information without requiring real-time interaction with physical codes.
By following this guide, you can confidently extract data from any saved image containing a QR code while ensuring security and reliability through trusted tools.
Remember, always verify links embedded in QR codes before proceeding to avoid potential risks!
