QR codes help us access information quickly, easily, and conveniently. With most modern Android smartphones, all you need to do is open the Camera app, point it at the QR code, and you’ll be redirected almost immediately to the corresponding webpage.
It can, however, be frustrating when your Android device struggles to scan and read a QR code, so let’s take a look at how to fix it.
1. Check the QR Code
If the QR code is clear and in good shape, you should have no problem scanning it. However, a faded, wrinkled, or blurry code may be difficult to scan. You can try to wipe off smudges or scratches if you notice any. Also, is it well-lit? Too much or too little light, with shadows casting over it, can distort the code and make it hard for your camera to scan.
2. Try Scanning Multiple QR Codes
Now, if the QR code looks like it’s in good condition, yet your camera won’t recognize it, try scanning as many other QR codes as you may find. This can help you figure out if the problem is with a singular QR code or your device. If your camera successfully scans and reads other QR codes but struggles with a particular one, then the problem might be with the specific QR code in question.
That particular code might have expired. Or the developers, while trying to make the QR code attractive, might have sacrificed utility for aesthetics. QR codes are classically made with black squares on a white backdrop, which is what most scanners are designed to detect. However, issues may occur when the design is reversed, using lighter squares on a darker background or using two similar colors, so there isn’t enough contrast.
If your camera cannot recognize any of the QR codes you’ve tried, then the problem might be from your device and not the code. But don’t worry just yet; there are still a couple of fixes to try.
3. Clean the Camera Lens
A simple fix to your problem might be a thorough wipe of your camera lens. Just like you need to clean a blurry pair of eyeglasses to see clearly, you need to regularly and thoroughly wipe your camera lens.
Dirt, smudges, or fingerprint marks on the camera lens can distort its ability to scan a QR code. Clean the lens gently using a microfiber cloth or lens cleaning solution. Avoid using rough materials that can scratch the lens.
4. Adjust Camera Focus
If you’ve cleaned your camera properly, try scanning the QR code again. This time, attempt to adjust the camera focus. Sometimes it takes a few moments for your camera to focus on an isolated object. Here’s what you can do: Move your device closer or further away from the code. Tap on the screen where the QR code appears to help the camera refocus.
5. Inspect Your Camera App
At this point, you have to check your phone’s camera. Make sure the in-built QR code scanner is enabled. Simply click the settings icon and ensure that the QR code button is toggled on.
However, a faulty camera will struggle to scan a QR code. If it’s constantly freezing, has a poor resolution, or crashes, the camera will struggle to read the QR code. Closing all other running apps, restarting your phone, or relaunching the camera app might work.
If that doesn’t work, then it could be a software issue, and you might have toupdate your Android phone. If you suspect the camera is damaged and could be a hardware problem, you should visit a service center for repairs or replacements.
Most modern smartphones have scanners integrated into the camera. All you need to do is point your camera at the code, and it automatically recognizes it. But on an older phone, the camera might be unable to scan QR codes by itself.
6. Use Google Lens
To try this method, launch the Google app and tap the camera icon in the Google search bar. When this brings up the Google Lens camera, point your device to the QR code. It should recognize the code and bring up a link you can tap to access the webpage.
You can also download the dedicatedGoogle Lensapp from the Play Store, or if that doesn’t work out for you, there are plenty of other qualityQR and barcode-scanning appsthat you can try. Assuming your hardware is working okay, you should find something to do the job.
7. Review App Permissions
You may be vaguely aware ofwhat Android app permissions are and how they affect you. For QR code scanning apps to function effectively, they need certain permissions, especially access to the device’s camera. So make sure that the app you’re using has the necessary permissions granted.
To check and grant permissions, go toSettingson your Android device. Scroll down toAppsorApplication Manager, depending on the device. Find the QR scanning app you’re using. Tap onPermissionsand ensure that all the required permissions, especially camera permission, are toggled on.
8. Check Phone’s Storage Space
There are manyreasons an app may stop working on your Android device. For example, certain apps won’t work unless there’s a certain amount of free storage space. Consider uninstalling some apps or deleting some other files to create more space. You might also need toclear the cache on your Android phone.
And finally, you may try a simple but often overlooked step—restarting your phone. Restarting your device closes all background processes and refreshes the system. It’s surprisingly effective for a lot of Android issues, and could be the ultimate solution to this little problem.
Fix Android QR Code Scanning Problems
QR codes have become an integral tool in today’s digital era, and it’s vital for devices to be able to scan them efficiently. If you’ve tried all the above steps and still face issues, it might be a good idea to get professional help from a repair center or feedback from your device’s manufacturer.
