How to Scan QR Codes Using the Google Lens QR Code Scanner

By: Fatima P.Last updated:September 06, 2024

The Google Lens QR code scanner is a free application and mobile feature that can decode QR codes.

It allows users to effortlessly access content, visit websites, or gather information by simply scanning QR codes using the tool.

Find out below how this scanning technology streamlines the process of accessing information from QR codes and how to make scannable ones using a reliable and user-friendly free QR code generator.

What you need to know about Google Lens

Google Lens is a visual search tool by the tech company Google that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to provide information about the things that a device’s camera captures.

Users can either scan a QR code from an image by uploading the image itself to the platform or pointing the camera toward the code to let the software recognize and provide relevant actions to them.

It’s available as a standalone app, but you can also see it in other Google services, such as Google Photos, Google Assistant, and even the device’s camera app.

This integration makes it one of the best options for mobile users to scan QR code on Android without an app.

Table of Contents

How do I scan a QR code with Google Lens?

The QR code Google Lens scanner simplifies the process of decoding QR codes with its ability to recognize objects that a mobile device’s camera captures.

It offers two ways to scan a QR code using the camera search or image search. Check out the guides below to learn how to use Google Lens.

Camera search

1. Open the Google Lens app on your device or access it through the Google app or the device’s camera and use the camera search Google Lens scanner.

2. Point your camera at the QR code. Make sure the QR code is well-lit and within the camera’s frame.

3. Tap the shutter button or screen to allow the tool to detect the QR code and display a pop-up notification that leads to the information.

Image search

1. Open the Google Lens app or access it through the device’s camera or Google app.

2. Using the Google image search, select the QR code image you want to scan from your gallery.

3. Click on the pop-up notification to access the information it stores. You can copy the URL or share it through other file-sharing apps.

Why use a Google QR scanner?

Google Lens is a reliable QR code scanner that ensures efficiency and enhanced functionalities, offering a better overall experience when interacting with QR codes.

Let’s discuss the benefits this powerful image recognition tool brings to users:

Efficient information retrieval

You can instantly access any online resources when you scan QR codes using Google Lens.

As long as you have an internet connection, you can skip manual searches or typing URLs, saving you time and effort in gathering information.

Integration with Google ecosystem

While Google Lens is available as a standalone app, various Google services like Google Photos and Assistant integrate it into their systems, allowing users to use the tool even without downloading the app itself.

Comprehensive features

The Google Lens QR code scanner offers more than just QR code scanning. It provides translations of foreign languages in real-time, facilitating seamless communication across different languages.

You can also use it to identify objects by uploading a photo using its image search feature. If you have a text you want to copy from a physical material, you can also use the tool to extract the text.

Device accessibility

You can access Google Lens on Android and iOS devices, making it accessible to a broad user base. You can also use it on a desktop computer to search by image directly.

Regular updates

Google Lens receives frequent updates, ensuring optimization, security enhancements, and compatibility with evolving technologies and environments.

Its image search feature, for instance, now allows users to point the camera at a landmark, and it will automatically provide its name.

Google Lens search problem: Why won’t Google Lens scan a QR code?

There are several factors why Google Lens cannot scan a QR code. It can be due to the scanner software, the scanning environment, or the QR code itself.

Here are some common issues that can affect successful QR code scanning:

Blurry QR code

Physical damage, smudging, or poor printing quality of the QR code can make it difficult for a Google Lens QR code scanner to read the information it stores accurately.

When creating a QR code, make sure to choose a higher error correction level to maintain readability even if the code suffers slight damage or blurriness.

Low contrast

Insufficient contrast between the code and its background can hinder a QR code’s readability.

While customizing QR codes can be appealing, overly complex designs or lack of color contrasts can interfere with the code’s scanning capability, leading to blurriness or errors.

In order to help the Google Lens QR code scanner differentiate the QR code’s pattern, ensure there is enough contrast by using a darker color for the codes and a lighter color for the background.

Incorrect size or resolution

QR code size should be at least 1.2 inches (3–4 cm) in dimension to remain scannable at a short distance. If the code is too small or lacks sufficient resolution, it may affect its readability.

When integrating the QR code into print materials, make sure that it has an adequate size. A larger, clearer, and sharper QR code allows the Google Lens search to scan more accurately.

Incorrect placement

Placing QR codes at an awkward angle may cause the scanner app or scanning device not to capture the code properly.

Make sure there is no deformation on the QR codes, whether digital or print, to ensure pattern recognition.

Lighting conditions

Glare from shiny surfaces or reflections can interfere with scanning, causing readability issues. Objects obstructing the QR code, shadows falling over it, or interference from other patterns nearby can also affect successful scanning.

Enough lighting in the scanning environment lets any scanner read the code accurately.

Encoding errors

The scanner may struggle to read the QR code correctly or direct users to the wrong content when generating the code with errors.

To avoid this, always run a scan test of the QR code with multiple scanning apps, such as the Google Lens QR code, to ensure it directs users to the right content and is readable across various platforms.

Technical issues with the scanner

Using an outdated version of Google Lens or encountering temporary glitches within the app can cause scanning issues.

Updating the app to its latest version is best. If issues persist, try restarting the app or restarting your device.

If none of the above works, consider troubleshooting further by clearing the app cache or data, uninstalling and reinstalling the app, or contacting Google Support for assistance.

Since most of Google Lens scanner’s features rely on an internet connection to work, it is best to have good network connectivity when using the app.

Steps to create functional custom QR codes

Now that you know the perks of Google Lens as a QR code scanner, it’s time to create a functional QR code that matches your brand. Follow the steps below to create one.

1. Open the Free QR Code Generator on your browser.

2. Select a QR solution that fits your needs and input the required information.

3. Generate the QR code.

4. Customize the appearance of the QR code according to the proper QR code design guidelines.

5. Run a QR code test using the Google Lens QR code scanner to see if it’s working and download it in PNG for digital use and SVG for prints.

Basic QR code solutions you should try from the Free QR Code Generator

Creating scannable QR codes requires functional QR solutions that address your specific needs to allow users to access the information seamlessly.

Take a look at these QR code solutions you can use to create custom QR codes:

URL QR code

If you’re looking for a way to convert your website links into a QR code, you can use the URL QR code solution to do so.

With just a scan of this QR code, users can quickly access specific content without needing to search for the information themselves or manually type in the URL.

File QR code

Using a file QR code, you can link your documents and multimedia content into a QR code.

This is useful for sharing documents, multimedia files, or digital content, enabling quick access or download by scanning the QR code.

Social media QR code

A Social Media QR code allows you to link and manage all your social media profiles or pages into one QR code.

Users no longer need to search for your name on social media platforms one by one. Scanning the code will direct them to a landing page where they can access these social media accounts.

The Free QR Code Generator’s social media QR is highly useful for influencers and marketers as it encourages users to follow or engage with them or their brand on social media platforms.

vCard QR code

You can create your digital business card using a vCard QR code. This solution allows you to store your contact information in a standardized format.

When users scan this code, they can conveniently and efficiently add your contact details to their smartphone’s address book, allowing you to build better connections with others.

WiFi QR code

You can store your network credentials into a WiFi QR code and let users scan it to quickly connect to the Wi-Fi without manually entering the details.

It’s helpful in sharing Wi-Fi access in public spaces, cafes, restaurants, or for guests at home, simplifying the connection process without compromising the quality.

Scan and search with the Google Lens QR code scanner

The visual recognition technology of Google Lens and its integration into various devices empowers users to access information from their environment effortlessly.

With its scanning feature, users can access digital content, visit websites, or gather information simply by scanning QR codes with their smartphone cameras.

However, it is best to generate scannable QR codes that direct users to the right content to ensure that a QR code scanner can successfully read a QR code.

Visit the Free QR Code Generator today and create a functional custom QR code for your personal or commercial needs.