QR codes are part of our daily lives: we see them in restaurants, on signs, e-tickets, business cards, and even in books. But if you have an iPad and don't know how to scan them, don't worry. There are several easy ways to do it, and even advanced tools if you need something more professional.
In this guide we are going to tell you How to scan QR codes with your iPad Both with the tools offered by Apple and with some of the best apps available in the App Store. We'll help you choose the option that best suits your needs and show you all the features you can take advantage of beyond simple scanning.
Scan QR codes with the iPad camera
One of the most convenient and fastest ways to scan a QR code with your iPad is by using the Camera application included as standard in the systemYou don't need to download anything or mess with any strange settings.
Simply open the camera and point it at the QR code. Within a few seconds, the device will automatically detect the code and display an on-screen notification with the associated information or link. This feature is native to iPadOS and has been available for several versions of Apple's operating system.
The camera scans any type of QR code: website links, apps, instructions, text messages, events, and more. The important thing is to focus the QR code correctly and hold the iPad still for a few seconds so the system can recognize it correctly.
How to access the scanner from the Control Center
While the Camera works perfectly, Apple also offers a direct option to scan QR codes from the Control centerThis method is especially useful if you have to scan a lot of codes or if you use this feature frequently.
To activate this option, go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls and add "Code Scanner" if you don't already have it enabled. Once added, just swipe down from the top right corner of your iPad (on models without a Home button) or up (on models with a physical button) and tap the scanner icon.
This scanner has the same functionality as the camera, but by opening in a dedicated interface, it can offer a slightly smoother experience when scanning many codes in a short amount of time, which is very useful if you work in dynamic environments.
What can you scan with your iPad?
When talking about QR codes, many people think only of links to web pages, but in reality, almost any type of information can be encoded. That's why the iPad QR reader allows you to open:
- web links that open directly in Safari.
- Texts or notes that can be copied or shared.
- Email addresses, phone numbers, or locations, which open in their corresponding apps.
- Calendar events that you can add with a single tap.
- Applications or digital content such as coupons, files or online records.
This makes the iPad a very useful tool. versatile for work, educational, and leisure activities. If you're interested in creating QR codes, you can find out how to do it easily at This guide on QR Creator.
The best apps for scanning QR codes on iPad
While Apple's system is effective, some people need more advanced features: Scan history, batch scanning, reading from gallery images, sharing results, or even creating your own QR codes.For this purpose, there are specific apps on the App Store that significantly expand the capabilities of the native reader.
Below, we review the best apps currently available for scanning QR codes on an iPad. All of these apps have been highlighted for their ease of use, speed, and additional features.
QR Code Reader – Scan QR (Robert Rasemann)
A very complete app that allows you not only to scan QR but also create your own codes. Automatically detects codes and provides a vibration alert. Its intuitive interface allows for multiple scans at the same time. You can also sync history to the cloud.
QR Express Reader (Arnau Egea)
This app is perfect if you're looking for a fast, distraction-free experience. Automatically detects codes without touching anything and has flashlight mode for scanning in poorly lit areas. Also preserves a history of your scans and contains no annoying ads.
Scan QR code, barcode (Aleksandr Alekseev)
A very effective app that offers essential functions such as reading from the image gallery. It will emit a sound or vibration when it recognizes the code. It also saves the scan history to consult it later or open the links directly from there.
QR Code Reader & QR Scanner! (MixerBox Inc.)
Especially useful when you don't have an internet connection. This app does not need to be connected to scan, although it does allow you to access linked content. It also has flashlight mode and history. It scans in 1D and 2D, making it compatible with even the most complex codes.
QR Code Reader – QR Scanner (Ying Chen)
Ideal for those looking for simplicity. Just point the iPad camera at the code, and the app will do the rest. Recognizes all types of QR codes, opens links with installed apps and allows save and share the codes directly from the app.
QR Code and Barcode Scanner (QR Reader Creator)
This reader allows both scanning and generate custom QR codes. It offers features such as history, instant scanning, and support for multiple types of information. It is ideal for business users or schools who need a versatile and productive tool.
QR Code Scanner – Code Reader (Kun Wang)
One of the most powerful apps in terms of functionality. It allows the batch scan and reading from images in the gallery. It emits visual and audible alerts, and allows you to choose how to open the content. It also supports the shared on social networks From the results.
QR Code Reader Scanner Scan (Yunlu Technology)
An intuitive app that lets you read QR codes without touching the screenSimply open the app and point at the code. It also supports reading from images and scanning promotional codes. It saves the results to a history and allows you to upload them to the cloud.
Scan QR Codes – QrScan (Wzp Solutions Lda.)
Designed for those who want something direct and functional. It automatically scans when you point the camera and allows share the results obtained on any social network. It also records the codes you've previously created and scanned.
Tips for scanning QR codes correctly
- Make sure there is good lighting, especially if you use the camera without flash.
- Do not move the iPad while pointing at the code, as it can make recognition difficult.
- Verify that the code is complete and not corruptedAlthough some readers may be able to reconstruct it, the ideal is to have the best possible quality.
- Avoid using the zoom function unless the code is very far away; it may make scanning more difficult.
Whether you use Apple's built-in tools or one of the great apps available on the App Store, Scanning QR codes on your iPad is a quick, convenient, and very useful task for everyday use.With these options, you can turn your tablet into a powerful and reliable code reader, ideal for both personal and professional use.
