Product update
How to Scan a QR Code from a Photo on Your iPhone
Ever taken a screenshot of a QR code? Learn how to open QR links directly from images saved in your iPhone's Photos app—no second camera needed.
Published Oct 27, 2025 · Updated Nov 4, 2025
TL;DR
- Open any photo or screenshot containing a QR code in the Photos app.
- Your iPhone will automatically detect the code. Tap the yellow link that appears or tap the Live Text icon in the bottom-right corner.
- If it doesn't work, make sure the QR code is clear, well-lit, and not blurry.
We've all been there: you're rushing and instead of scanning a QR code, you just snap a quick photo of it to deal with later. Or maybe a friend sends you a screenshot with a QR code in it. How do you actually use it without pointing a second phone at your screen? Luckily, your iPhone has a powerful feature called Live Text that can recognize and activate QR codes directly from any image in your Photos library. It's a simple trick that's incredibly useful once you know how to do it. This guide will walk you through the primary method, a few workarounds if that fails, and some troubleshooting tips to ensure it works every time.
While you're mastering scanning, are you also looking to digitize your old printed photos? Learn how to scan photos on your iPhone for the best quality.
1) Open the Image in Your Photos App
Find the photo or screenshot that contains the QR code and open it. Make sure you're viewing the image full-screen.
2) Let Your iPhone Detect the Code
If your iPhone recognizes the QR code, two things might happen:
- A yellow link or button will pop up directly over the QR code.
- A small Live Text icon (a square with lines in it) will appear in the bottom-right corner of the image.
If you see the yellow link, just tap it to open the URL or perform the action. If you see the Live Text icon, tap it, and it will highlight all recognizable text and codes in the image. You can then tap the QR code to activate it.
Pro Tip: If nothing appears at first, try zooming in slightly on the QR code and give your phone a second to process the image.
3) What to Do If It Doesn't Work (Troubleshooting)
Sometimes, Live Text struggles to recognize a code. Here are the most common reasons why and how to fix them:
- The Code is Blurry or Low-Contrast: Live Text needs a reasonably sharp, clear image. Try cropping the photo tightly around the QR code and increasing the contrast in the editing tools. For tips on getting sharper pictures, see our guide on fixing blurry photos.
- The Code is Obscured or at an Angle: Make sure all four corners of the QR code are visible. If it's on a crumpled piece of paper or at a steep angle, it may not register.
- Inverted Colors: QR codes work best when they are dark squares on a light background. If you have an inverted code (light on dark), it might fail. Try using a third-party QR scanner app from the App Store, as some are designed to handle these.
Privacy and Security Reminder
Always be cautious when scanning QR codes from unknown sources. Before you tap, your iPhone will show you a preview of the URL. Make sure it's a domain you recognize and trust. Treat QR code links with the same skepticism you would any other link you receive.
FAQs
Can I scan a QR code from a screenshot? Yes, absolutely. The process is exactly the same for screenshots as it is for photos you've taken with your camera.
Why isn't the Live Text icon appearing on my iPhone?
First, ensure Live Text is enabled in Settings > General > Language & Region. Also, this feature requires an iPhone XS, iPhone XR, or later.
Can this feature read regular barcodes? No, the built-in Live Text feature in the Photos app is specifically designed for QR codes, not traditional UPC barcodes on products.
Editor’s note: While QR codes help us access digital information, our main focus is helping you preserve your physical memories.