No separate app needed anymore
The QR codes commonly seen on menus or posters can now be scanned directly with almost any modern smartphone camera, with no dedicated scanner app required.
Where QR codes show up most
Beyond restaurant menus, QR codes are now common at event check-ins, on product packaging for extra details, and at payment terminals β the scanning method is largely the same everywhere, though payment codes often need to be scanned from inside the specific payment app instead of the camera.
Frequently Asked Questions
The camera won't recognize the code no matter what I do.
Adjust the distance and angle so the whole code is clearly visible and in focus, and check that the screen or code isn't too dark to read.
Can I pay for something by scanning a QR code?
Many payment apps support QR-based payment, but in that case you usually need to scan from within the payment app itself rather than the regular camera app.