Both iOS and Android got native Qr Code scanners in 2021, thanks to Apple and Google adding the functionality to iOS 11 and Android 8 Oreo, respectively. However, the feature remains missing entirely in older iPhones (iOS 10.x and older) and Android devices (7.x Nougat and older). Thankfully, there are dozens of third-party apps that not only bring the functionality to older devices but also offer added features that are not available natively on either Android or iOS. So here’s a list of the best QR code and barcode scanner apps on Android and iOS.
Best Barcode and QR Code Scanners on Android and iOS
There are many QR Code and barcode scanner apps available on the Play Store and App Store, and we have rounded up 10 of the very best for you. Here, we list the best QR Code and barcode scanners available on Android and iOS so you don’t fall prey to malicious scanner apps that could jeopardize your privacy and security. Almost all of them are available on older devices and include a ton of useful features. But before we get to the list, let’s check out how you can use the built-in QR code scanner on Android devices.
Scan QR Codes on Android Without a Third-Party App
The latest versions of Android (version 8.x Oreo and above) come with a native QR code scanner. To use the feature, first enable the Google app on your phone (if it isn’t already) and give it the requisite camera and microphone permissions to scan QR codes.
- Now open up the camera app and point it at a QR Code. Next, tap on the Google Lens symbol. Depending on your device and Android version, you will either get an automatic popup to scan the code, or you might have to long-press the home button to activate Google Assistant and scan via Google Lens.
- In this case, the QR code points towards the Beebom website, so you can see the Beebom URL on the phone screen. It is a live link, which means you can tap on it to visit beebom.com.
Best Apps to Scan Barcodes and QR Codes on Android
Note: Many of the apps mentioned on this list have similar names, so make sure to use the respective links to download the correct apps.
1. QR Code Reader and Scanner by Kaspersky
One of the best barcode and QR code scanners on Android and iOS, Kaspersky QR Scanner is a smart QR reader developed by the renowned cyber-security firm. Not only does it read QR codes, but it also checks the safety of texts, images, and websites linked to the QR code. The app uses the company’s malware database to detect rogue QR codes containing dangerous links that can expose users to malware and phishing traps.
Once you scan the QR code, the information is stored on-device so that users can easily access past links, images, and websites. The app is available both on Android and iOS and is updated regularly with the latest features and bug fixes. As such, it is one of the best QR code and barcode scanners you can use on your mobile, irrespective of whether you use an iPhone or an Android device.
Platforms: Android (Free), iOS (Free)
2. QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play
With more than 100 million installs, QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play is one of the most popular apps in the segment on Android. The app, which is listed as QR Code Reader & Barcode Scanner on the App Store, can scan and read all QR codes and barcode types, including text, URL, ISBN, product, contact, calendar, email, location, Wi-Fi, and more.
After scan and automatic decoding, the app provides users with only the relevant options to take the appropriate action. You can even use the app to scan coupons and coupon codes to receive discounts and save money. It also allows you to create QR Codes and share your contact info via QR codes.
Platforms: Android (Free), iOS (Free)
3. Free QR Scanner – Barcode Scanner, QR Code Reader by InShot
Free QR Scanner – Barcode Scanner, QR Code Reader is another super-popular app in the segment on Android. It supports all QR Codes, Barcodes, Data Matrix, Maxi code, Code 39, Code 93, Codabar, UPC-A, EAN-8, and more. After scanning a QR code, the app will offer several relevant options, enabling users to search the products online, visit the websites, or even connect to Wi-Fi without manually entering passwords.
