How to scan a barcode with your phone
A barcode is just another machine-readable code — the striped kind on product packaging (UPC/EAN) instead of the square QR kind. A scanner app reads both, which is handy for looking up products, checking prices, or keeping a record of what you've scanned.
Scan a barcode step by step
- Open Scan QR Code Master and point the camera at the barcode.
- Line the stripes up horizontally inside the frame and hold steady.
- The app reads the number and shows the result — you can copy it or search for the product.
- Check History later to find anything you've scanned before.
Barcode formats you'll run into
- UPC-A / UPC-E — retail products in North America.
- EAN-13 / EAN-8 — retail products in most of the world.
- Code 128 and Code 39 — shipping labels, tickets, and ID cards.
- QR and Data Matrix — 2D codes used for links, tickets, and small-part labeling.
FAQ
- Can my phone scan a product barcode?
- Yes. Scan QR Code Master reads standard retail barcodes (UPC and EAN) as well as QR codes, so you can look up an item or copy its number in a tap.
- Does the built-in iPhone Camera scan barcodes?
- The Camera app focuses on QR codes and doesn't reliably read product barcodes. For UPC/EAN and other 1D formats, use a dedicated scanner like Scan QR Code Master.
Scan and create QR codes in a tap
Scan QR Code Master is a free, ad-free QR and barcode scanner and generator for iPhone, iPad, and Mac — with history and one-tap sharing.
Download on the App Store