Scanning a QR code on your MacBook is a quick and easy way to access information like websites, contacts, and maps. QR codes are becoming more popular as a means of sharing information without having to manually type in URLs or copy and paste data.
There are two ways to scan a QR code on a MacBook, first one is using inbuilt features and apps available on your Macbook. Other are third party app, you can easily install them through apple app store
Use Photos App (MacOS Mojave and later)
The easiest way to scan QR codes on MacBook is through the built-in Photos app, which comes pre-installed with MacOS Mojave and later.- Open the Photos app and hover your MacBook's camera over the QR code.
- A notification will pop up prompting you to scan the code.
- Select "Scan Code" and the QR code contents will load.
Using the Camera App:
Recent MacBook models come equipped with a built-in camera that can be used to scan QR codes. Here's how you can do it:- Open the Camera app on your MacBook.
- Position the QR code within the camera's viewfinder.
- Wait for a moment until the QR code is recognized.
- A notification will appear with the decoded information or action associated with the QR code.
Camera App (MacOS Catalina and later)
If you're using MacOS Catalina or later, you can also use the Camera app to scan QR codes.- Open the Camera app and hover your MacBook's camera over the QR code.
- A scan circle will appear - center the QR code within the circle.
- Your MacBook will scan and decode the QR code, displaying the contents in a notification.
Preview App
The Preview app, a default macOS application, can also scan QR codes. Here's how to use it- Open the Preview app on your MacBook.
- Click on "File" in the menu bar and select "Import from iPhone > Scan QR Code."
- A window will open with the camera viewfinder.
- Position the QR code within the frame, and Preview will automatically decode it.
- Third-Party QR Code Scanning Apps for MacBook:
Using the Notes app:
Open the Notes app on your MacBook.- Click on the camera icon in the toolbar.
- Select Scan QR Code from the dropdown menu.
- Hold the QR code in front of the camera lens.
- The code will be scanned and the associated data will be displayed in the Notes app.
Using a third-party app:
There are many third-party QR code scanner apps available for the Mac.- Some popular options include QR Code Reader, QR Code Scanner, and Scanbot.
- Install one of these apps on your MacBook.
- Open the app and click on the Scan button.
- Hold the QR code in front of the camera lens.
- The code will be scanned and the associated data will be displayed in the app.
Tips for scanning QR codes on a MacBook
Here are some additional tips for scanning QR codes on a MacBook:- If you have a newer MacBook with a Touch Bar, you can use the Touch Bar to scan QR codes.
- If you are having trouble scanning a QR code, try adjusting the brightness and contrast of your screen.
- If you are still having trouble scanning a QR code, try using a different QR code scanner app.
Conclusion
Scanning QR codes on your MacBook is a straightforward process, thanks to the various native methods, third-party apps, online tools, and advanced techniques available. Whether you prefer using the built-in camera, native apps like Preview, or opt for feature-rich third-party apps or online scanners, you have plenty of options to choose from. By following the methods outlined in this comprehensive guide, you'll be able to decode QR codes effortlessly on your MacBook, opening up a world of information and possibilities at your fingertips.
Read this article to learn How to scan QR Code on phones. (Android & iPhone)