How to Scan QR Code on Google Pixel 3a XL

A QR code is a type of barcode in the form of a square, which is used to transmit information. Nowadays, such codes have become extremely popular and have started to be used in all spheres of life. To get the information encrypted in this simple square, you need to scan a QR code on your phone. There are several ways of doing this, each of which will be discussed below.

Direct QR code scanning on Google Pixel 3a XL

Firstly, we should distinguish between direct scanning and the reading of information from a photo, which is a QR code. In the first case, we are talking about this type of scanning, when the image of the code is located on another object (for example, on a piece of paper or a stand). The second type of scanning is the decoding of information directly from the phone where the QR is located. We start by talking about direct scanning, as it is the most commonly used type.

Via the "Camera" app

It is highly likely that your phone already has a dedicated reader, which is available through the "Camera" app. However, this will depend on the firmware version. The more up-to-date it is, the higher the chance of finding the desired function. The scan in this case proceeds as follows:

1. Start the "Camera" application.

2. Go to the QR code scanning section (may be located deep in the settings).
3. Aim the viewfinder at the code until it fits into a virtual square.
4. Press the shutter button.

If you have followed all the instructions correctly, a QR code encrypted result will appear on the screen. This will be a link to a page on the internet or a short text.

Via Google Lens

The code reader is also integrated into the Google Lens app, available on Play Strore. It can be used in cases where Camera doesn't have the functionality we need. Google Lens is available by default on all Android smartphones, so you can run it on Google Pixel 3a XL without downloading additional software:

1. Start the Camera app.
2. Switch to the tab with Google Lens.
3. Aim the camera at the square of the QR code.
4. Press the button in the form of a magnifying glass.

After completing the last step, you will be redirected to the page encrypted in the code, or you can read the author's registered text. The same awaits those who decrypt the QR through a separate Google Lens app.

Third-party software

The code reader functionality is not only available in the standard app or Google Lens. It is also found in third-party programs. For example, a code can be deciphered via the "QR & Barcode Scanner". The program is available for download from Play Store. After installing the additional software, all that remains is to follow the steps described above when considering "Camera" and Google Lens.

Scanning a QR code on Google Pixel 3a XL from a photo

If the code is not located on a separate object but saved on Google Pixel 3a XL as a photo or PDF file, you can also decrypt the information. To do this you will need:

1. Highlight the snapshot (PDF file).
2. Go to "Send".
3. Select the read out application as the recipient.
4. Confirm sending.

Choose your sending software carefully. If it is a QR-encrypted link, you can use the usual "Camera". If you need to pay for a product or service, it is better to send the file directly to the bank's app. It is also possible to upload a ready-made image for scanning in many programs.

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