Quick answer

Save the QR code as a screenshot, long-press it in the Photos app on iPhone, or use Google Lens on Android. You can check images that do not respond by inserting them into the QR image reading tool.

01

QR code that cannot be pointed at the camera

If a QR code received via SNS or email is displayed on the same smartphone, it cannot be read with a regular camera. However, there is no need to prepare a separate terminal, and you can read it by saving it as an image.

First, take a screenshot so that the entire QR code is included. Leaving some white space around the image will make it easier to recognize.

02

Standard features for iPhone and Android

On iPhone, open the image in the Photos app and press and hold the QR code to display link suggestions. Depending on the model and OS, you can open it from the detection icon at the bottom right.

On Android, open the image in Google Photos and select Lens. The manufacturer's own photo app may also have a QR reading function. If it does not respond, please try it as is without cropping the image.

03

How to improve when you can't read

If the QR code is small, blurred, slanted, or the logo in the center is too large, the recognition rate will decrease. If you can get the original image, use the original image rather than a screenshot.

With the image reading tool, you can check the contents by simply selecting an image on your device. Even if the result is a URL, don't open it immediately; look at the string and domain name.

  • Insert the entire QR and the four corners
  • Do not cut off too much surrounding space
  • Use bright and clear images
04

Safety check before opening links

You cannot tell the destination just by looking at the QR code. Be wary of shortened URLs, unfamiliar domains, and screens that force you to log in or send money quickly. Check if the domain is from the official website, and if you are unsure, move to the official website from search.

VERIFIED EXAMPLE

Confirmation conditions for QR generation/reading

We combined the implementations on the generation and reading sides and confirmed the conditions that margins, error correction, and image size affect reading.

Margin when generated3 modulesEnsure white margin around QR
error correctionL/M/Q/HCan be selected from 4 levels depending on the application
Image readingAnalyze on long side maximum 1400pxLarge images can be reduced and read on the device
Light/dark reversalBoth normal and invertedAttempt to detect images with reversed black and white
Even if the read result is a URL, it will not open automatically. You can check the displayed string and domain before moving.
CHECK

Confirmation for safe opening

  • ✓I visually checked the URL of the read result.
  • ✓Spelling matches official domain
  • ✓Do not rush personal information or remittances
  • ✓If it looks suspicious, don't open the link
Solve it with this tool

QR image reading

You can read the contents of the QR code on your device from a screenshot or saved image.

QR image reading→

This article gives general guidance. If a recipient, printer or official service provides its own requirements, follow those requirements first.

A SMALL NOTE FROM SPACE

A QR code is a small square universe. Before you warp, just make sure you know where you're going.