How to scan a QR code in 2021

Know your smartphones for better engagement in 2021

All smartphones can interact with QR codes, but you should stay up-to-date with which phones interact with them out-the-box. 

Scanning via your camera 

If you have an iPhone with iOS11 or an Android 9 and newer, you can scan QR codes without needing an app. This is useful for you to remember, so make a note. 

• Open the native camera 
• Focus the camera on the QR (but don’t take a photo) 
• Click the pop-up to be taken straight to the experience

It’s good practice to describe the 3-step process in simple terms. You can use an infographic like below alongside your QR codes.

View the best practices for making the most of your printed QR codes.

Scanning via a QR reader app 

For older Android and iPhone handsets, free apps like ‘QR Code Reader by Scan’ are easy to use and self explanatory.  

If you like, remember the general rule for QR codes: If the camera doesn’t scan the QR code then you need a free QR code app. 

What about NFC?

NFC can detect and enable technology in close proximity without needing an internet connection – or be activated by the user. This is the tech that powers contactless payments and its becoming more familiar with people.

QR is a visual proximity tech. This means that you need an image of a certain size on your physical object in order for someone to interact with it.

NFC works from a small chip which can be hidden from view. It won’t work  for your online fundraising but it means that smaller objects such as pin badges can be enabled. 

Go to “How to engage with NFC touch-points in 2021”or learn how the technology will work with your fundraising assets, here.