How to scan a QR code displayed on the same iPhone

Hello apple, I would like to ask you, how to scan a QR code on one phone. Maybe my phone is old cause it’s a 7 and hasn’t gotten any new updates but if a QR code to me, lets say forwarded by someone on WhatsApp, how am I able to scan it if I have only one device in hand

iPhone 7 Plus, iOS 15

Posted on Jan 31, 2026 3:50 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 31, 2026 4:18 PM

gechkeang ~ Scanning a QR code on your own iPhone is enabled by Apple's Live Text feature in iOS 15 and later. For example, the sequence of images below shows Live Text in the Photos app 'scanning' a QR code containing a phone number. Here are the steps:


  1. In Photos app, browse to an image of a QR code.
  2. A grey Live Text icon should automatically appear in the lower right corner.
  3. Tap it to turn on Live Text – the icon will turn blue.
  4. Tap the QR code.
  5. Options will appear for using the phone number embedded in the QR code.


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3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 31, 2026 4:18 PM in response to gechkeang

gechkeang ~ Scanning a QR code on your own iPhone is enabled by Apple's Live Text feature in iOS 15 and later. For example, the sequence of images below shows Live Text in the Photos app 'scanning' a QR code containing a phone number. Here are the steps:


  1. In Photos app, browse to an image of a QR code.
  2. A grey Live Text icon should automatically appear in the lower right corner.
  3. Tap it to turn on Live Text – the icon will turn blue.
  4. Tap the QR code.
  5. Options will appear for using the phone number embedded in the QR code.


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How to scan a QR code displayed on the same iPhone

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