To scan a QR code displayed on your own screen (such as in an image, email, or webpage), you cannot simply point your camera at it since it's on the same device. Here are effective methods depending on your device:

On Android

• Use Circle to Search (if available):
  Press and hold the home button (or navigation button if using gesture navigation) to activate Circle to Search. Then circle the QR code on your screen with your finger. The feature will scan the QR code and show the associated information or link

• Use Google Lens App:
  Install and open the Google Lens app. Tap the photo gallery icon, select the screenshot or image containing the QR code, and Lens will scan it automatically, showing the decoded data

• Use Online QR Code Readers:
  Take a screenshot of the QR code on your screen, then upload that image to a trusted online QR code reader website (e.g., QRCodeDynamic or ScanQR.org). The site will decode the QR code and display its content

• Press and Hold on QR Code in Gallery (if supported):
  Some Android phones support pressing and holding on a QR code image in the gallery to trigger scanning and show the link or data

On iPhone or iPad

• Use the Camera App or Code Scanner:
  Normally, you scan QR codes by pointing the camera at them. To scan a QR code on your screen, take a screenshot of the QR code, then open the Photos app. Use a third-party app like Google Lens or an online QR code reader to scan the screenshot since the built-in camera cannot scan codes on the same screen

• Use Google Lens or Online Tools:
  Upload the screenshot with the QR code to Google Lens or a reputable online QR code reader to decode it

On Computer

• Use Online QR Code Readers:
  Save the QR code image or take a screenshot, then upload it to an online QR code scanner like ScanQR.org or QR Code Dynamic. These tools will decode the QR code and show its content directly in your browser

Summary

Device| Method| Notes
---|---|---
Android| Circle to Search, Google Lens, Online QR reader| Circle to Search is quick if available
iPhone/iPad| Screenshot + Google Lens or Online QR reader| Native camera can't scan own screen
Computer| Upload image to online QR code scanner| Easy and no app needed

This way, you can scan QR codes displayed on your own screen without needing a second device or camera pointing workaround