7 Features Your Scanner QR Code Must Have
A scanner QR code is a tool that detects, analyzes, processes, and decodes the information stored in a QR code.
Think of it as your key to the world of QR codes—it is essential to discover the versatility, functionality, and creativity that these black-and-white pixelated squares can offer for personal and professional purposes.
The most important feature that you should look for a QR code scanner is its robust scanning that is quick and easy to use. But more than scanning, it’s nice to have a variety of other features to improve your scanning experience.
Free QR Code Generator takes a deep dive at QR code scanners, their best features, and a few recommendations to get you started.
Table of Contents
How do QR code scanners work?
Most QR code scanners work instantly; you point the camera toward the code, and it scans in real time. It may only take a few seconds because of factors, such as tampered QR codes, lighting conditions, and angle.
However, behind this quick process, there’s actually a lot happening to decode the right information in the QR code—that’s why a QR code test is also important.
Here’s a quick rundown of how QR code scanners work:
QR code capture and detection
The scanning process starts with pointing the camera or the scanner to capture the QR code. Most smartphones nowadays are equipped with the basic function of QR code scanning.
A QR code reader captures and detects:
- Positioning detection markers
- Alignment markings
- Timing pattern
- Version information
- Format information
- Data and error correction keys
- Quiet zone
Even in a small footprint like a QR code, there are a lot of things going on. With advanced technology, these things are captured at incredible speeds.
Data analysis and processing
Once captured and detected, a QR code scanner quickly analyzes and processes these patterns, markers, and indicators.
To make it easier to process the captured image to QR code, the scanner may also improve the quality, adjust the brightness and contrast, and filter out noise. This should help the scanner yield more accurate scans.
Decoding the information
Once the QR code pattern is done analyzing and processing the data, it should reveal the information inside the code—be it a document file, image, video, or URL.
In optimal conditions with perfect lighting, QR code image conditions, and an advanced device, the first to third steps should be immediate. With a feature-packed mobile QR scanner, you shouldn’t experience any delay in scanning.
If the information takes a long time to decode, you can try again in more optimal conditions. This is also the part where you can identify a QR code scam content to avoid further issues.
Desired action after the scan
After the information has been decoded, the QR code scanner will show a prompt, which is the desired action of your scan.
For example, if the QR code includes a URL, the desired action should be to redirect you to a webpage. If it includes an image or a video, you should be able to download the file or open a webpage where these files can be seen.
More commonly, the prompt of the desired marketing action will show as a pop-up at the bottom of your screen. Simply click it to complete your scanning.
Must-have features of a QR code scanner
In addition to simple and instant scanning, a QR code scanner lets you do a lot more. To equip you with the capability to do more, you must choose a scanner with features that allow you to do exactly that—more!
So the question is, what exactly are the features to look out for in a QR code scanner? Listed here are the must-have features:
Robust scanning algorithms
As its main function is to scan QR codes, a QR code scanner must have robust scanning algorithms. This means that the software can quickly capture, detect, process, analyze, and decode the information in as little as a second.
Robust scanning also means it is dependable in various environments and lighting conditions. It should also be able to scan QR codes that have been tampered with, at least those that haven’t reached their error correction levels yet.
Barcode scanner capabilities
Along with QR codes, traditional barcodes are the most common codes used in a wide variety of industries. It’s a nifty feature if a scanning tool can also scan other types of two-dimensional barcodes.
Other types of codes that the scanner may scan also include:
- Data matrix
- MaxiCode
- DotCode
- PDF417 code
- Han Xin code
- Aztec code
These types of 2D barcodes can be very useful for file storage, product information, inventory management, and price details.
Scanning history logs
If you can track all the scans made using your scanner QR code, you don't have to rescan the QR code if you want to access the information again.
With scanning history log features, a QR code scanner may also allow you to save information from scanned QR codes, such as URLs, contacts, and references. It comes in handy if you don't have ready access to QR codes to scan again.
Scanning analytics data
In addition to scanning history, another useful feature is analytics. A QR scanner may provide insights about your scanning activities, the types of codes you scan, information embedded in the code, and more.
This data allows the scanner to analyze your user behavior and use it to improve your scanning experience further through the software.
Offline scanning options
When you scan QR code online, you need an internet connection to decode the information embedded in the code. If you’re in an area with poor network coverage, you may not be able to scan a QR code.
A few QR code scanner apps offer this feature. However, if the information you’re trying to access is online, you may still need to connect to the Internet.
Customization for accessibility
For visually impaired people, it helps if their QR code scanner vibrates once it detects the code and when it’s done scanning. It is also very useful if there are instructions that allow them to align the code to yield more accurate scan results.
These accessibility features must be highly customizable to create a scanning experience that matches each user’s needs and preferences. Other nice-to-have customization features include changing the app theme, notification settings, and more.
Top-notch security features
Most of all, a scanner QR code must be secure. It should have advanced security features that alert you of possible harmful links that may enter your device by following the desired action by the QR code scan.
As a basic feature, a QR code scanner should at least give a preview of the information embedded in the code. This should help the user decipher whether to proceed with following the prompt to gain full access to the information.
Popular QR code scanners you can use
Almost all modern smartphones are equipped with a built-in QR code scanner in the native camera app. It should be available for iOS devices version 11 and above and Android devices version 8 and above.
However, if you want a QR code scanning tool with more comprehensive features, here are some popular suggestions you can use:
Google Lens
- Available on iOS and Android
- The Google Lens QR code scanner scans screenshot from gallery
NeoReader
- Available for iOS and Android
- Also works as a barcode scanner for other barcode formats
QR Code Scanner by Kaspersky
- Available on iOS and Android
- Places heavy emphasis on security and privacy
QuickMark
- Available on iOS and Android
- Supports social media integration
QR Scanner & Barcode Reader by MixerBox
- Available on iOS and Android
- Offers additional features like history logs
QR Code Reader by Scan
- Available on iOS and Android
- Simple and easy-to-use user interface
QRbot
- Available on iOS and Android.
- Quick, reliable, and accurate scanning results
How to generate a custom QR code
Knowing the scanning procedures, best QR code scanner features, and QR code scanning tools available in the market is all great; but it all starts with one thing: QR code generation.
The great news is that generating QR codes is as uncomplicated as scanning them. All it takes is seven steps using a trusted QR code software, and you’re good to go.
The best part is that you don’t have to pay to get started! It’s free of charge; no sign-ups or credit card information needed.
Generate a QR code today; here’s how:
1. Go to Free QR Code Generator online.
2. Select a QR code solution.
3. Enter the required information in the empty fields.
4. Select between Static and Dynamic QR codes, then generate.
Pro-tip: Dynamic QR codes let you edit its content and have a QR code tracking feature, which data is accessible through in-platform analytics, perfect for any campaign.
5. Customize the eye and pattern designs and frames of your QR codes. Remember to add your logo, use your brand colors, and include a call to action to encourage scans.
6. Check if the customize QR code is recognizable by scanning it using your smartphone.
7. Download in PNG for digital use and SVG for prints.
Free QR Code Generator as a QR code scanner
Did you know you can also use this web-based application to decode the content of a QR code?
This feature is highly useful when you want to scan QR code on laptop and don’t have another scanner device available.
Here are some simple steps to do it:
Select the URL QR code solution.
Upload a QR code image by dragging it to the platform or finding it in your folders.
Copy and paste the extracted link on another tab to access.
Scanner QR code: Gateway to the digital world
QR codes have transformed information storage, cashless payments, wifi password sharing, marketing and advertising, social media engagement, product packaging, events management, and virtual business cards.
To join this revolution, you need a reliable and efficient QR code tool that enables quick and easy access to the information inside the code. It is your gateway to the expansive digital world of these black-and-white square patterns.
You can find all of these right here at Free QR Code Generator. Visit us today and discover more ways to use QR codes to your advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I scan a QR code with my smartphone?
Yes, you can. Most modern smartphones have a built-in QR code scanner in their native camera apps.
To scan, simply open the camera app, point it toward the QR code, and follow the on-screen prompts to access the information or link embedded in the code.
Can QR codes be scanned without an app?
Yes, you don’t need a dedicated third-party QR code scanning app just to scan a code, but you can always use one if you want more comprehensive features.
