How to Create and Scan Wi-Fi QR Codes on iPhone and Android?

Today’s world runs on Wi-Fi. It is everywhere — homes, hotels, clubs, airports — you name it, and they have it. Wi-Fi passwords must be complex to prevent unauthorized access and use, especially in public places. However, sharing the passwords to grant internet access to everyone personally could be inconvenient. Plus, the chance of users mistyping is high. 

Use the Wi-Fi QR code — an easy-peasy pixelated square containing Wi-Fi credentials that unlocks instant, seamless Wi-Fi access, offering personal convenience or streamlined team connectivity. Just a simple scan, and voila! You are connected to the internet!

Looking to create one? Dive into this guide to learn how to create and scan Wi-Fi QR codes on iPhone and Android devices and how QRCodeChimp helps you generate fully customized, branded QR codes for personal or business use.

What is a Wi-Fi QR code?

A QR code for Wi-Fi holds your Wi-Fi login details, providing a swift and simple method to join a Wi-Fi network. By scanning the QR code, users can connect to the network without the hassle of manually searching for it or inputting login credentials.

How to create a Wi-Fi QR Code on an iPhone

To get started, download the Shortcuts app from the App Store.

Step 1: Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone and tap “Gallery” in the lower-right corner.

Step 2: Swipe right until you spot “Shortcuts for Accessibility” at the top, then tap it.

Step 3: Scroll down to find “QR Your Wi-Fi” and select it.

Step 4: Tap “Add Shortcut.”

Step 5: In your list of shortcuts under “My Shortcuts” (found on the lower-left side of the screen), tap “QR Your Wi-Fi.”

Step 6: Enter your Wi-Fi name and tap “Done.”

Step 7: Input your password and tap “Done” again.

Step 8: A QR code will appear on your screen. Tap it to explore additional options. 

You can share your code by tapping the Share icon at the lower-left corner of the screen, allowing you to save or distribute it via AirDrop, social media, email, and more.

How to scan a Wi-Fi QR code on an iPhone?

On an iPhone, you can scan a Wi-Fi QR code using the following methods:

Native Camera

• If your iPhone runs iOS 11 or later, you can scan QR codes with the native Camera app. 
• Open the Camera app and point it at the QR code. 
• A notification banner will appear. Tap to join the network.

Control Center

• On your iPhone, swipe down from the top right corner of the screen. 
• Select the QR code scanner icon. Point the scanner at the QR code. 
• A notification banner will appear. Tap to join the network.

Google Lens

• Install the Google app on your iPhone.
• Open the Google app and tap the Lens icon (shaped like a dot inside a square). 
• Point your camera at the QR code. 
• Google Lens will recognize the code and prompt you to connect to the Wi-Fi network.

How to create a Wi-Fi QR code on Android?

Here are the simple steps for creating a Wi-Fi QR code on your Android device. 

Step 1: Ensure you’re connected to your Wi-Fi network.

Step 2: Go to “Settings” > “Network & Internet” >”Wi-Fi” > Click on Wi-Fi. Then, click the settings of your Wi-Fi network. 

Step 3: You will see the ‘Share’ option. Click and verify it using your PIN or fingerprint. A QR code containing your Wi-Fi password will be generated.

Step 4: Click the ‘Quick  Share’ option and turn on Bluetooth. 

Note: Take a screenshot of the QR code for those Android phones that don’t have the ‘Quick  Share’ option.

Step 5: Share the QR code with nearby devices or tap ‘Use QR Code’ to display the code for scanning. 

How to scan a Wi-Fi QR code on Android?

Here’s how to scan a Wi-Fi QR code on your Android phone using various methods:

Native Camera

• Open your phone’s camera app.
• Point it at the wifi QR code.
• If supported, your phone will recognize the QR code. 
• It will prompt you to connect to the network.

Google Lens

• If your phone has Google Lens integrated into the camera app or as a standalone app, open it. 
• Use the camera to scan the QR code. 
• Google Lens will recognize the code. 
• It will offer to connect you to the network.

Third-Party Apps

• Utilize third-party QR code scanner apps found on the Google Play Store.
• These apps usually include features to process QR codes.

Quick Menu (if available)

• Certain Android phones have a quick menu. Swipe down from the top of the screen to access it. 
• If your phone supports this feature and has a QR code scanner in the quick menu, you can scan QR codes directly.
• Choose the method that suits you best, depending on your phone model and preferences.

Circle to Search feature 

• This Google feature for Android phones can be used to scan QR codes. 
• Take a screenshot of the Wi-Fi QR code on your phone. 
• Go to the Gallery where the screenshot is saved. Open the image, tap and hold the home key button, and then circle the QR code using your finger. 
• When you remove your finger, your phone automatically scans the code and displays the embedded content. 

Note: This feature works only on Samsung Galaxy phones (including most S, Z, and A series) and Google Pixel phones (including Google Pixel 7, 8, and 9 series). 

How to create a Wi-Fi QR code with QRCodeChimp?

Smartphone-generated QR codes come with certain limitations, such as lack of customization and branding elements like brand logos and colors. However, with QRCodeChimp, you can fully customize your QR codes to align with your personal or corporate identity. 

Here’s how to create a Wi-Fi QR code using QRCodeChimp’s Wi-Fi QR code solution. Follow the steps:

Step 1: Log in to your QRCodeChimp account and select QR code generator for Wi-Fi. 

Step 2: Enter the SSID, which is the name of your Wi-Fi network. 

Note: Open your phone’s Settings and navigate to Wi-Fi. Tap on Wi-Fi, and the SSID of the network you are connected to will be displayed. Make sure to enter the exact SSID. 

Step 3: Enter the correct password for encryption using WPA/WPA2 or WEP.

Step 4: Choose the Wi-Fi encryption type.

Note: Select the ‘Wi-Fi network is hidden’ checkbox for a hidden network.

Step 5: Click ‘Design Color and Decorate QR Code’ to customize your QR code design (e.g., by adding color, shape, or sticker).

Note: To save changes, click the ‘x’ icon in the ‘Customize QR Code’ pop-up.

Step 6: Save the QR Code by clicking on the ‘Save QR Code’ button, entering the QR name, and then clicking on ‘Save.’

Note: Scan your QR Code from different devices (iOS and Android) before printing for production.

Comparing Wi-Fi QR code options 

QR codes created on Android and iPhone devices are suitable for immediately sharing Wi-Fi credentials. They offer a quick and convenient way for individuals to connect to a network. However, the appearance of these QR codes may be relatively standard and lack customization options.

On the other hand, QR codes generated on QRCodeChimp are highly versatile and can be used by businesses to display Wi-Fi credentials. With QRCodeChimp, businesses can create visually appealing QR codes that align with their branding and aesthetic preferences. The extensive customization options allow for the integration of logos, colors, and design elements, ensuring that the QR codes leave a lasting impact on users.

Key Difference	Android & iPhone QR Codes for Wi-Fi	QRCodeChimp QR Codes for Wi-Fi
Creation Process	Android: Use the Settings Menu to create the QR code for Wi-Fi. iPhone: Use the Shortcut App.	Log in to QRCodeChimp and go to QR Code Generator for Wi-Fi to create the QR code for Wi-Fi.
Appearance	These QR codes usually have a simple and basic look.	QRCodeChimp offers customization options, including colors, shapes, logos, and sticker templates for visually appealing QR codes.
Suitable for	Sharing with individuals for immediate access.	Sharing with large groups of people.

Where can Wi-Fi QR codes be used?

Wi-Fi QR codes can be instrumental in various settings where you want to provide easy and quick access to a Wi-Fi network without the hassle of typing in passwords. Here are a few places where these QR codes can be convenient:

🍔 Restaurants and coffee shops

Customers can scan the QR code to connect to the Wi-Fi network, allowing them to enjoy their food and beverages while surfing the web.

📚 Educational institutes and libraries

Schools and universities can facilitate student and faculty access to secure Wi-Fi networks through QR codes in classrooms, libraries, and common areas.

🏥 Hospitals

For patients and visitors, easily accessible Wi-Fi through QR codes can make waits more bearable and help keep them connected to family and friends.

✈️ Airports and public transport hubs

Travelers can easily access airport Wi-Fi by scanning a QR code, allowing them to check flight status, download boarding passes, or stay entertained during layovers. QR codes at train, bus, and tram stations also provide quick Wi-Fi access, keeping commuters connected while waiting. This convenience improves the overall travel experience.

👩🏻‍💻 Office building and co-working spaces

In office buildings and co-working spaces, QR codes enable employees, visitors, and freelancers to easily connect to Wi-Fi without complex passwords, boosting security and convenience. This streamlined access supports productivity and collaboration in professional settings.

💼 Conferences and trade shows

At large events, organizers can use these QR codes to help attendees easily connect to the Internet, which is essential for app downloads, presentations, and social media updates.

🛥️ Hotels and cruise ships

These QR codes in hotels and cruise ships simplify guest connectivity, enabling easy access without complex passwords. This convenient feature allows guests in hotel rooms and passengers on cruise ships to quickly connect their devices for communication, entertainment, and planning activities.

Conclusion

To conclude, creating and scanning QR codes for Wi-Fi on Android and iPhone devices is made effortless, enhancing connectivity. With QRCodeChimp, users can easily create these QR codes, simplifying sharing and access. Whether for business or personal use, QRCodeChimp prioritizes simplicity, empowering users to unlock QR code potential seamlessly.

Frequently asked questions