How to scan a QR code on Android with Google Lens.
With Google Lens you can read QR codes efficiently and natively on Android

Scan QR on Android: 3 quick and easy methods

We show you how to read a QR code easily from an Android device, using Google Lens.

Martial Triguero
By Martial Triguero

Entering the world of QR codes is immersing yourself in a universe of almost infinite possibilities. These small black and white squares are a true phenomenon: they no longer just adorn the corners of advertisements, but have become an essential tool in our daily lives. Who hasn't come across one when trying to access a restaurant menu or receiving a promotional brochure?

Note

If when you point your smartphone's camera directly at the QR code it does not read it, that is when you have to use some of the methods that I will give you below. This is important so that you don't waste time unnecessarily.

Its versatility is amazing and its ability to simplify processes is undeniable. But, I'm not going to lie to you, sometimes when we take out our Android phone and try to scan one of these codes, we encounter some obstacles. But don't worry, because I'm here to become your QR scanning guide on Android devices, making sure you get the most out of this present and future technology.

Why are QR codes important?

You may be wondering what is so special about these codes and why they have become so relevant. To understand this, it is useful to take a look at your history and evolution. QR codes (for “Quick Response”) emerged in Japan in the 1990s, with the initial goal of tracking parts during vehicle manufacturing. However, its ability to store a large amount of information in a small space soon transcended the industrial sphere.

Chronological graph showing the evolution of barcodes from UPC to QR codes, highlighting the exponential increase in the amount of data they can store.

Over the years, these codes have gone from being a technological curiosity to an indispensable tool in the interaction between brands and consumers. Its implementation in advertising campaigns or in the daily operations of many businesses is a reflection of how dynamism and ease of use can facilitate our daily lives. So, the next time you find yourself faced with one of these codes, think about all the possibilities they contain and how, in just a few seconds, they can offer you exactly what you need.

Preparations before scanning QR codes on Android

Before embarking on the adventure of scanning QR codes with your Android device, it is essential to make sure that your mobile is up to the task. Think of it as warming up before exercising; It is a crucial part of avoiding problems. Here are some tips to make your experience as smooth as possible:

  • Check that the camera app is updated. Many times, QR scanning features are optimized with the latest versions.
  • Make sure your Android operating system is updated. Software updates not only bring security improvements, but also new functionality that may include or improve the scanning of these codes.
  • If your device is a version earlier than Android 8, consider install a third-party app to scan QR. Later I will tell you which ones may be good options.
  • Check your permission settings to allow the camera or third-party app access the camera of your device.

The importance of software updates is something that we should not overlook. In addition to introducing improvements to your device's speed and performance, updates typically include critical security patches and often new features that further simplify the QR code scanning process.

Scanning QR codes with Android 7 and earlier

If your smartphone is a veteran of the Android world and runs on version 7 or earlier, don't worry, you can still join the QR code party. For these devices, you will need a third party application that acts as a bridge between you and the information hidden in that intriguing black on white square. Let's explore the options you have at your disposal:

How to choose a safe and effective application

  • Look for apps with good ratings and a significant number of downloads in the Play Store. This is usually indicative of its reliability and effectiveness.
  • Look at the permissions the app requests before installing it. If it asks for more permissions than necessary, such as access to your messages or contacts, it is better to look for another option.
  • Consider the recommendations of computer security experts. Apps like “QR and barcode reader" or "QR Reader – QR Code Scanner” are usually among the most popular for their security and ease of use. Both tested at the time and work perfectly.
  • Don't forget to read the opinions of other users. Often, their experiences can give you clues about how the app performs in real-life scenarios.

Once you have your QR code scanning app installed, the process is quite simple. You open the app, point the camera at the QR code and, as if by magic, the information will be revealed before your eyes. Some apps even allow you to save a history of scanned codes, which can be helpful if you scan codes frequently.

QR code scanning on Android 8 and higher

For those lucky enough to have Android 8 (Oreo) or higher on their devices, the QR code scanning process is a marvel of simplicity and efficiency thanks to the integration with Google Lens. There is no need for third-party applications; your camera is ready to reveal the secrets of that enigmatic square in seconds. And for those of you who have not tried it yet, I invite you to follow these simple steps:

Using the native camera and Google Lens for effortless scanning

First let's start with the native camera:

  • Open the camera app from your Android.
  • Go to 'More' or go to 'Settings' and activate Google Lens suggestions.
  • Point the camera at the QR code and the content of the QR code should be displayed automatically (via a drop box or similar).

Now, if you want to know how to get the most out of Google Lens directly (my favorite method), here is the recipe:

  1. Open Google Lens, whether from the camera, the Google Assistant or the Lens app itself.
  2. Hold the QR code within the camera view for 2-3 seconds.
  3. A pop-up with the content linked to the QR code will appear. That easy!
This is how you open a QR code with Google Lens on Android

As you can see, the future is already here and scanning QR codes with Android 8 onwards is as easy as it is practical.

Additional Tips and Tricks for Scanning QR Codes

Although the process of scanning QR codes with Android is intuitive, there are a few tricks that can make your experience even smoother. Here are some tips to make each scan a resounding success:

  • La lighting it's key. Make sure the QR code is well lit but avoid direct reflections that could make it difficult to read.
  • La distance it also matters. Not too close, not too far; Find the sweet spot where your camera can correctly focus on the code.
  • Don't forget that some QR codes are designed to be scanned from a specific application. Read carefully the instructions that usually accompany the code.
  • If the QR code contains a URL, verify that it is a secure address before opening the link. Sometimes a quick internet search can save you from visiting a malicious website.

Towards the future: the evolution of QR codes and Android

QR codes and Android have come a long way together, and it seems like their journey is just beginning. The recent innovations They give us clues about how these codes will continue to transform our interactions in the digital world.

For example, imagine that in the not-too-distant future, QR codes could be the gateway to more immersive augmented reality experiences or even faster and more secure payment methods. Who knows? Maybe one day, we can even use them to uniquely identify ourselves in the fabric of the network.

What is clear is that the combination of QR codes and Android will continue to surprise us and make our lives easier in ways that we can barely glimpse now. I will be here, attentive to the news, ready to tell you how to get the most out of each of them. So, don't take your eyes off, the future promises!

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Technology veteran with more than 20 years of experience, passionate about mobile devices, home automation and artificial intelligence. In addition to my fascination with movies and series, I have solid experience in server and database administration. Committed to continuous learning, I always seek to stay up to date with the latest technological trends.
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