Wi‑Fi QR Scanning Tips for iOS and Android

Last updated: December 11, 2025 — See all guides at /guides/

Most modern phones read Wi‑Fi QR codes instantly, but camera quirks can get in the way. Use these tips to improve scan success.

iOS (iPhone/iPad)

How to scan

1. Open the native Camera app (no extra app needed).
2. Point at the QR; keep it flat and well lit. A Wi‑Fi join banner should appear.
3. Tap the banner to join. For hidden SSIDs, iOS may prompt you to confirm the network name.

Common iOS issues

• No banner appears: Increase contrast and margin; clean the camera lens; avoid glossy prints.
• Prompt to confirm SSID: Hidden networks often trigger this; ensure the SSID is short and exact.
• Still won’t join: Check security type (WPA2 vs WPA3) and password accuracy; reboot Wi‑Fi and retry.

Android

How to scan

1. Open the Camera app; most modern Android versions support QR natively.
2. If the prompt does not appear, try Google Lens from the camera or pull down Quick Settings → QR/Scan option.
3. Tap “Join Wi‑Fi” when prompted.

Common Android issues

• No prompt: Enable QR scanning in camera settings or use Google Lens.
• Join fails: Confirm security type and password; some OEM skins mis-detect hidden SSIDs—try broadcasting temporarily, then hide again.
• Blurry scans: Increase QR size to 400–600 px for screens or 1000+ px for print; increase quiet zone to 4–8 modules.

Best practices for reliable scans

• Use high contrast (dark code on light background); avoid gradients or busy textures.
• Keep the code flat and uncreased; avoid glossy lamination and curved surfaces.
• Place a short caption like “Scan to join guest Wi‑Fi” and include a text fallback nearby.
• Test with one current iOS and one current Android device after each password rotation.

FAQ

Do I need a QR app?

No. iOS Camera and most Android camera apps read Wi‑Fi QR codes natively. Google Lens is a good backup on Android.

What size should I print?

For table tents and flyers: 800–1200 px (or SVG) with a 4–6 module margin. For screens: 300–500 px is usually fine.

Why does hidden SSID ask for confirmation?

Some devices require a manual SSID confirmation for hidden networks. Keep SSIDs short and exact, or use a broadcast guest SSID instead.

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