With the proliferation of smartphones equipped with cameras, mobile devices became the most common hardware platform for scanning QR codes. Mobile apps, such as QR code readers and barcode scanner, allowed users to scan QR codes using their smartphone cameras, democratizing access to QR code technology. As QR codes became more popular, web-based QR code scanner emerged. These online tools allowed users to upload an image containing a QR code, and the website would decode the information.
This approach eliminated the need for installing dedicated apps but required an internet connection. The most prevalent and user-friendly QR code scanner are mobile apps, available for both iOS and Android devices. These apps leverage smartphone cameras to quickly and accurately scan QR codes, making them an integral part of our daily lives.