With an Android tablet, there's no need for a bulky traditional barcode scanner like this one.

It’s probably the Barcode Scanner app you’re thinking of, as it’s been available for Android for practically as long as the operating system has has existed.

TECH How to scan a QR code with your iPhone or Android phone (no apps needed) QR codes are those pixelated squares you see in restaurants, advertisements, stores, food packaging, business cards ...

A quick QR code scan can resolve all these questions and more. Think of this tech as a smart barcode. QR codes existed long before smartphones, and your device can scan them right out of the box.

QR codes are a great way to relay a lot of information in a small space and your Android phone has multiple ways to read them. Here's how to do it.

Here's how to scan a QR code on your iPhone or Android phone. Many phones have QR code scanners, but if yours doesn't, we also recommend some apps to help.

Instagram – Instagram users can scan Nametags, a form of QR code, to quickly follow someone. Facebook – The Facebook app uses QR codes for friend requests and event check-ins.

Don’t want to use the Google app on your iPhone or the Lens app on Android? You can still scan any QR code image using a free website—and it works on any device, including Windows and Mac.