How to scan a business card QR code on iPhone and Android

Someone at a meeting in Dubai holds out their phone and says "just scan this." If you have never scanned a business card QR code, it can feel awkward in the moment. It takes about five seconds on any modern phone, and you do not need to install anything. This guide shows how to scan a business card QR code on iPhone and Android, open the digital card and keep the contact for later.

Scan with your phone camera

Open the normal camera app and point it at the QR code, holding the phone steady about 15-30 cm away. Most current iPhones and Android phones recognise the code on their own and show a banner or link. Tap it and the digital card opens in your browser. No app and no sign-in are needed to view a MyInfo card.

If nothing appears

• Make sure the whole code is in the frame, with the white margin around it visible.
• Ask the other person to raise their screen brightness and hold still.
• Move away from glare, especially outdoors or under exhibition lighting.
• On some Android phones, QR scanning sits inside the camera's Google Lens mode or a built-in scanner in the quick settings. A free QR scanner app also works.

The sender can help by following the tips on QR code business cards, such as a clear margin and a dark code on a light background.

Save the contact to your phone

Once the card is open, tap Save Contact. Your phone downloads a small contact file (a .vcf file) with the person's name, company, job title, phone numbers, email and website. Open it and choose to add it to your contacts. The steps are described in how visitors save your contact. Some cards skip the page and go straight to the file, as explained in send visitors straight to your contact.

Keep the card for later

A saved contact has the details, but the card itself may have a portfolio, links, videos or a booking button. Add the page to your home screen, or message the link to yourself on WhatsApp, if you want to come back to it. Because the card is live, you always see the latest version when you reopen it.

When a tap is easier than a scan

If the person has an NFC card, you can skip the camera: hold the top of your phone against the card and the same page opens. See NFC vs QR code business cards and does it work on iPhone and Android for how the two compare.

Want people to scan yours? Create your free digital business card and get your own QR code in minutes.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an app to scan a business card QR code?

Usually not. Modern iPhone and Android cameras read QR codes directly. If yours does not, install any free QR scanner app, and the card will open in your normal browser.

Is it safe to scan a business card QR code?

Check the address that appears before you tap. A MyInfo card opens a page on myinfo.ae, and you choose whether to save the contact or share anything back. Be cautious with codes on stickers or posters you cannot verify.