iOS 12: How to Add QR Code Scanning to Control Center

iOS 11 added QR code scanning to the Camera app, and iOS 12 makes that feature more obvious with a new Control Center tile. Here’s how to enable it, and why you might want to.

The Camera app automatically scans QR codes when it sees one and iOS 12 does the same, too. You can turn the feature off if it creeps you out and scan those codes only when you want, which is where iOS 12’s net Control Center Tile comes in. Here’s how to enable it.

To enable the Control Center QR Code scanner tile do this:

• Launch the Settings app


• Tap Control Center


• Tap Customize Controls


• Click the green plus symbol next to Scan QR Code

iOS 12 Control Center includes a QR Code scanner tile

With the QR Code scanner tile in Control Center you can toggle scanning on only when you want to use it.

Bonus tip: You can also 3D Touch (firmly press) the Camera app icon to see the QR Code scanner option. The benefit of putting it in Control Center is that you don’t have to first find which screen the app is on.

iOS 12 Control Center QR Code Scanner tile (left) and Camera icon menu option (right)

Extra bonus tip: How do you turn off automatic QR Code scanning? It’s easy and probably adds a little peace of mind for anyone who’s worried about accidentally scanning a code when they don’t want to.

To turn off automatic QR Code scanning in iOS 11 and iOS 12 do this:

• Launch the Settings app


• Tap Camera


• Turn off Scan QR Codes

The iPhone and iPad Camera app lets you turn off automatic QR Code scanning

iOS 12 is currently as developer and public betas. The official public release is coming this fall as a free upgrade for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch users.

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