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Scan QR code is a built-in Galaxy shortcut that opens a scanner for reading a QR code. You can use it from Quick settings, or scan with the Camera app in PHOTO mode. Before opening anything a code brings up, check the destination shown on screen.
What does Scan QR Code do on a Samsung phone?
It opens a scanner that reads the information stored in a QR code, such as a web address. Samsung documents two ways to scan: the dedicated Scan QR code shortcut in Quick settings and the Camera app’s PHOTO viewfinder. You do not need a separate scanner accessory for these built-in methods.
The scanner displays a result; scanning does not mean you have to open it. Review the address or information first, then choose whether to continue.
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How to scan a QR code from Quick settings
- Open Quick settings: Swipe down from the top of the screen with two fingers.
- Start the scanner: Tap Scan QR code.
- Read the code: Aim the scanner window at the QR code and follow the on-screen result. The window may also offer flashlight or Gallery controls.
If you do not see the shortcut, the precise screen and available controls can vary by Galaxy model and software version. Samsung’s support instructions describe this route, but not every device has an identical interface.
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How to scan with the Camera app
- Open Camera.
- Select PHOTO mode.
- Point the viewfinder at the QR code and wait for the camera to recognize it.
- If it does not scan, open Camera settings and turn on Scan QR codes, then try again.
Samsung’s steps and labels may differ depending on the phone, software, and app version. If your Camera settings do not match these labels, consult the support information for your specific Galaxy model.
What to do if the QR code is missing or will not scan
- Quick settings has no scanner shortcut: Try the Camera method instead. Samsung notes that feature names and entry paths may vary by model and software.
- Camera does not recognize the code: Confirm that you are in PHOTO mode and that Scan QR codes is enabled in Camera settings.
- The code is on your phone already: The Quick settings scanner window may offer Gallery access. Samsung also documents QR-code use during Smart Switch setup; other apps may handle codes differently, depending on the app.
Check the destination before opening it
A QR code can lead to a spoofed website designed to steal information or to malware. The Federal Trade Commission advises checking the URL for misspellings or swapped letters before opening it, and warns against scanning unexpected codes in urgent emails or texts. Its September 2026 alert also describes scammers covering legitimate parking-meter codes with their own. If a code appears somewhere unexpected, inspect the destination rather than opening it automatically.
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- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
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Ordinary QR scanning is separate from payment. Samsung announced QR payments through Camera or Quick Panel for selected Samsung Pay-compatible devices in India in 2021, with software requirements at that time. That regional announcement is not a current compatibility list and does not mean scanning any QR code on any Galaxy phone will initiate a payment.
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- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Samsung guidance
- Samsung Support US: Ways to scan a QR code on your Galaxy phone or tablet
- Samsung Service Korea: Galaxy camera QR-code instructions
- Samsung Newsroom India: 2021 announcement about QR payments on selected devices
QR-code safety guidance
- Federal Trade Commission: Scammers hide harmful links in QR codes to steal your information
- Federal Trade Commission: See a QR code parked somewhere? Don’t scan it…yet!
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