How to use the QR Code Scanner
- Tap “Scan with camera” and allow camera access — or choose an image containing a QR code.
- Hold the code inside the frame until it's read.
- Copy the result, or check and open the link.
What does this tool do?
Handy for reading a QR code in a screenshot or on your laptop, where a phone camera can't help. The scanner uses the BarcodeDetector built into Chrome, Edge and Android browsers; on iPhone the Camera app reads QR codes natively.
The camera feed is analysed on your device and is never recorded or uploaded. Always check a link before opening it — QR codes can point to any site.
Why use it?
- Camera or image upload.
- Nothing uploaded.
- Shows the link before opening.
Use cases
- Read a QR code that's in a screenshot, email or PDF on your computer.
- Scan a code with a laptop webcam when your phone isn't handy.
- Check where a QR code on a poster or parcel leads before opening it.
Common mistakes
- Opening a link without reading it. Fake QR codes stuck over real ones (on parking meters, menus or flyers) are a known scam — check the address first.
- Scanning a blurry or tiny code. Fill the frame with the code, keep it flat and use good light; for images, crop close to the code.
Privacy
Your files are processed entirely in your browser using built-in web technologies. They are not uploaded to our servers, and closing the page clears them from memory. There's no account to create and nothing to install.
Frequently asked questions
Does it work on iPhone?
Safari on iPhone and iPad doesn't include the browser's built-in QR detector this tool relies on, so you'll see a message instead. Use the iPhone Camera app, which reads QR codes natively. The scanner works in Chrome, Edge, Opera and Samsung Internet on Android and desktop.
Can I scan a QR code from a screenshot or photo?
Yes. Choose the image file instead of using the camera. If nothing is found, crop closer to the code or use a sharper photo.
Is the camera video recorded or uploaded?
No. Frames are analysed on your device a few times a second and nothing is saved or sent. The camera turns off when you stop scanning or leave the page.
Can I scan several codes?
Yes. Each new code is added to the results list (up to 20), with buttons to copy the text or open links.
Last reviewed by the M2Toolkit team.