Google promotes Pixels as the smartest Android experience, packed with features designed to simplify your life. While some functions may seem minor, it’s the little things that matter most. In today’s digital era, QR codes are ubiquitous, and Pixels offer multiple ways to scan them. Here’s how to scan a QR code on a Google Pixel phone.
Method 1: Scan QR Code Using the Camera App
You can easily scan a QR code using the Camera app on your Google Pixel. Here’s how:
- Launch the Camera app.
- Point the rear camera at the QR code.
- A small link will appear above the shutter button; tap it to access the content.
Method 2: Scan QR Using Google Lens
You can also use Google Lens to scan QR codes, including those saved in your gallery.
- Open the Google Lens app or install it from the Play Store.
- Point the camera at the QR code until a link appears, then tap it to open the content.
- To scan a QR code from your gallery, tap the picture icon at the bottom left, select the image with the QR code, and the link should appear at the top.
Method 3: Scan QR Code with Lock Screen Shortcut
Pixels and most Android devices feature lock screen shortcuts, including a QR scanner. Here’s how to set it up:
- Open the Settings app, then select Display and touch.
- Go to Lock display > Lock screen > Shortcuts.
- Tap the QR code scanner icon for the “Left shortcut” or “Right shortcut”.
- Lock your Pixel and wake it up to see the QR code scanner on the screen. Long press the QR code shortcut to launch it.
Method 4: Scan QR Code Using Pixel Quick Settings
You can also launch the QR code scanner from Quick Settings as an alternative. Here’s how:
- Swipe down to open Quick Settings.
- Find and tap the QR code scanner tile. If it’s not visible, swipe right to locate it on other pages.
- This opens the QR code viewfinder, allowing you to scan any QR code in front of you or from your photo library.
Method 5: Scan QR Code with Google Photos App
Google Photos integrates with Google Lens, making it easy to scan QR codes saved as images. Here’s how:
- Open Google Photos and select the image to view it full-screen.
- Tap the Google Lens icon at the bottom; the image will open in the Google Lens app.
- Lens will scan the QR code and display a link, which you can tap to access the intended content.
Method 6: Scan QR Using Google Assistant
Google Assistant can easily scan QR codes displayed on your screen. To use it:
- Invoke Google Assistant by swiping from the edges of your Pixel or saying “Hey Google”.
- When the Assistant UI appears, tap on the Search screen action to scan for the QR code.
- Tap the displayed link to go to the QR code’s destination.
Method 7: Scan Using Circle to Search
The Circle to Search feature allows quick scanning of QR codes. Available on all Pixel devices starting with the Pixel 6, here’s how to use it:
- Long-press the home button or navigation bar at the bottom to activate Circle to Search.
- If a QR code is on your screen, a link should appear instantly.
- Tap the link to open its intended location, or if you don’t see it, circle the QR code by doodling over it, and a link will appear in the search results.
These are all the ways to scan a QR code on a Google Pixel. What do you think of these methods? Let us know in the comments.
