App

An app (application) is software installed on smartphones or tablets. In the QR code ecosystem, three types dominate: scanner apps, generator apps, and payment apps. Dedicated scanner apps were once essential, but since iOS 11 (2017) and Android's Google Lens integration, the native camera app handles QR scanning directly.

Dedicated apps remain useful in specific scenarios. Scanner apps with history features let you review previously scanned codes. Payment apps (PayPay, Alipay, Google Pay) form the backbone of QR code payments. Enterprise apps leverage QR codes for inventory management and access control.

Security is the key concern when choosing apps. Malicious scanner apps have been reported to alter scanned URLs, redirecting users to phishing sites. Choose apps from trusted developers and avoid those requesting unnecessary permissions. The safest option is the native OS camera, which eliminates third-party tampering risks entirely.