Quick Response (QR) codes have become an integral part of our daily lives, used for everything from ordering food to accessing tickets and proving identity. However, many people are still unaware that they don't need a separate app to scan these codes – their phone's built-in camera can do the job.

The technology behind QR codes is fascinating. Invented in the 1990s to scan car parts, they gained popularity during the pandemic as touchless tech became a priority. Today, QR codes can store up to 3KB of information or redirect users to a website or app page. They contain a small amount of data, typically under a hundred alphanumeric characters, and have error correction built-in, making them robust and reliable.

To scan a QR code, all you need to do is open your phone's camera app and point it at the code. Assuming the lighting is good and the focus is clear, you should see a link appear underneath the code. Tap this link to head to the website or app page the QR code is pointing to. What happens next will depend on the code – it might take you to a menu page for a restaurant, for example, or to a contact card.

It's worth noting that QR codes can also be used to scam people, often by directing them to fraudulent websites that attempt to trick them into revealing personal or payment information. Therefore, it's essential to be cautious when scanning QR codes, especially those stuck in random public places, on suspicious websites, or that seem to have been tampered with. Your phone's built-in security should catch and block most phishing attacks, but it's always better to be safe than sorry.

If you need to save a QR code for later, you can take a photo of it. On Android devices, you can use Google Photos to read a QR code in a saved image by opening it and tapping the Google Lens button. On Apple devices, you can open the saved image in Apple Photos and tap the Live Text button to read the QR code.

While there are many third-party QR code scanner apps available, they often come with ads and pestering subscription requests. Unless you need specific features like the ability to scan different barcode types or create your own QR codes, it's recommended to stick with your phone's built-in camera app. For creating QR codes, Adobe's free online QR code generator is a good and relatively safe option.

In conclusion, QR codes have become an integral part of our daily lives, and knowing how to scan them using your phone's built-in camera can make life easier and more convenient. By understanding the technology behind QR codes and being cautious when scanning them, you can make the most of this ubiquitous technology.