As per CNN reports, QR codes were used in 2016 to complete transactions to the tune of $1.65 trillion in China. And in 2017, QR codes were also used to obtain about 1.7 Billion coupon codes; this figure is estimated to grow to about 5.3 Billion by 2022. Even if you take these figures with a pinch of salt, you still can’t deny that people would be scanning more QR codes in the future. You may think that it might be limited to select regions or markets, but that won’t be the case. We have compiled this list containing some of the best QR scanner apps for Android smartphone users. Let’s check them out.
1. QR Scanner (by Joe North)
This app lets you scan and read the information encoded in a QR code, and you can also create a QR code. The user interface is clean and the features are super easy to grasp and use — launch the app, point the camera to the QR code, and the app decodes the information. This QR scanner app by Joe North supports all types of QR codes there is. Be it a URL QR code or those used to store calendar information, Wi-Fi parameters, contact information, address/location/GPS coordinates, email address, or just plain text. Whatever information a QR code carries, this app will read it. The app also saves your scan history so you refer your activity anytime. As mentioned earlier, you can also use this app to encrypt personal information into a QR code for other people to scan. The QR scanner app by (Joe North) is totally free and has no in-app purchase. You might notice one or two ads in some sections of the apps during usage, though. Install QR scanner app (by Joe North) from Google’s Play Store
2. Kaspersky Lab’s QR Code Reader
Although Kaspersky Lab is majorly renowned for its web security products and services, the Moscow-based company also develops utility apps. If you are conscious about mobile security, this QR code scanner from Kaspersky should be your first choice. The app is packed with a bunch of security-focused features. When you scan a QR code, the Kaspersky scanner will warn you if it contains malicious links that could harm you or your device. Not just links, but also texts, images, or whatever information encoded within any QR code. The Kaspersky scanner also keeps a history of previous QR codes you’ve scanned for reference purposes. Install Kaspersky QR Scanner on Google Play Store
3. Avira Insight
Avira Insight is another security-focused scanner that does the job of protecting you from accidentally opening QR codes that contain malicious content(s). It does this by scanning links and websites in real-time using Avira’s proprietary URL cloud technology. The app is low-light friendly as it supports flashlight that lets you seamlessly scan QR code at night or in dark rooms. Avira Insight also doubles as a barcode scanning app with which you can use to check and compare prices of products while shopping. I used the app to scan pictures containing QR codes in my gallery, and it worked seamlessly. The Avira Insight QR scanner app is available on the Google Play Store for free and supports devices running the Android v4.4 KitKat OS or newer. Install Avira Insight from the Play Store
4. QR code reader (by Green Apple Studio)
The Green Apple Studio’s QR scanner app is another noteworthy mention. Asides the support for all types of QR codes, the app’s interface is pretty straightforward. Everything is spelled out neatly, and you should have no issues getting the hang of its features. Asides the QR scanning feature, you can likewise use the app to create your custom QR code by encoding private information such as contacts, links, phone numbers, etc. The app also scans product barcodes just as fast as it scans QR codes in seconds. The only disappointing feature is the app doesn’t have a built-in browser. As such, you cannot open links directly within the app. When you scan a QR code containing a link, you’d have to open the link using your phone’s web browser or other supported apps. The QR code reader (by Green Apple Studio) has over 10 million installs on the Google Play Store, a 4.7/5 rating, and is available for free. Install Green Apple Studio QR Scanner
5. Lightning QR Code Scanner (by Apps Wing)
In addition to scanning QR codes, you can use this app to scan barcodes, generate personal customized QR codes, and also create dedicated business cards QR codes and barcodes. The app lets you scan all QR code formats and saves them in the History section, where you can always retrieve them for reference purposes. Simply launch the app, tap the scan icon, point the camera to the QR code, and the app automatically decodes it. I used the app to scan the barcode of a body lotion I bought, and capturing was super fast. The app also comes with a built-in browser that allows you to use search for products online and compare prices directly within the app. One of the best things I love about this app is it also lets you create customized QR codes for Wi-Fi too. You can use that to generate a QR code for your home Wi-Fi network and simply have your guests it to connect. Another nifty feature is that the app lets you scan QR codes and barcodes from images in your phone’s gallery. The Lighting QR code scanner (by Apps Wing) is available on the Google Play Store and can only be used on a device running the Android 4.4 OS or newer. Install Lightning QR Code Scanner
Make Sense of QR Codes
As an Android user, you should have at least one QR code scanner app on your smartphone. Any of the apps listed above would get the job of decoding QR codes done easily and swiftly. We recommend that you choose a QR scanner with security features as they protect you (and your device) from QR codes that contain malicious content. Next up: Do you know you can create a QR code for your WhatsApp profile so your friends can easily add and text you? Check how to go about it in the article linked below.
