How Do You Scan a Barcode?

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Barcodes are everywhere. They are on products, tickets, electronic components, billboards, and digital screens just to name a few.

While barcode scanners are common in businesses and retail, not everyone has access to these specialised devices.

Fortunately, technological advancements have made it possible to scan barcodes using smartphones, tablets, and computers.

This guide provides clear instructions on how to scan barcodes with iPhones, iPads, Android devices, websites, and both Windows and Mac computers.

How to Scan a Barcode Using an iPhone or iPad?

Using the Built-in Camera App

Scanning a barcode with an iPhone or iPad is a straightforward process, thanks to the built-in features of iOS devices. Here’s how you can do it.

Open the Camera App: Unlock your iPhone or iPad and open the Camera app.
Position the Barcode: Point the camera at the barcode, ensuring it is centred on the screen.
Wait for the Scan: The camera automatically detects and scans the barcode. A notification will appear at the top of the screen.
Tap the Notification: Tap the notification to view the information or perform the action associated with the barcode (e.g., opening a webpage or displaying product details).

Using a Third-Party App

If you need more advanced features or encounter issues with the built-in Camera app, consider using a third-party barcode scanning app. Here are the steps:

Download a Barcode Scanner App: Go to the App Store and search for a barcode scanner app.
Open the App: Launch the barcode scanner app you downloaded.
Grant Permissions: Allow the app to access your camera if prompted.
Position the Barcode: Point the camera at the barcode, ensuring it is centred on the screen.
Scan the Barcode: The app will automatically detect and scan the barcode, displaying the information or performing the associated action.

How to Scan a Barcode Using Android?

Scanning barcodes on an Android phone can be done using the built-in camera app, a third-party app, or the Edge web browser. Here’s how you can do it:

Using the Built-in Camera App

Open the Camera App: Unlock your Android device and open the Camera app.
Position the Barcode: Point the camera at the barcode, ensuring it is centred on the screen.
Wait for the Scan: The camera automatically detects and scans the barcode. A notification will appear with the relevant information or action (e.g., opening a webpage or displaying product details).

Using a Third-Party App

If you need more advanced features or the built-in Camera app doesn’t work for you, consider using a third-party barcode scanning app. Here’s how:

Download a Barcode Scanner App: Open the Google Play Store and search for a barcode scanner app.
Open the App: Launch the barcode scanner app you downloaded.
Grant Permissions: Allow the app to access your camera if prompted.
Position the Barcode: Point the camera at the barcode, ensuring it is centred on the screen.

Scan the Barcode: The app will automatically detect and scan the barcode, displaying the relevant information or performing the associated action.

Using Edge Web Browser

You can also use the Edge web browser to scan barcodes. Here’s how:

Open the Microsoft Edge App: Launch the Microsoft Edge app on your Android device.
Access the Camera: In the search box on the Bing homepage, tap the Camera icon.
Grant Permissions: Allow the browser to use your device’s camera.
Select Barcode Mode: Tap on the Barcode option.
Position the Barcode: Aim the camera at the barcode, ensuring it is centred.
Scan the Barcode: The browser will detect and scan the barcode, providing a link or relevant information that you can open.

How to Scan Barcodes Using a Website?

There are various websites available online that help you scan barcodes. This method is convenient, especially if you prefer not to download additional apps. Here’s how you can do it:

Open Your Web Browser: Launch your preferred web browser on your device (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari).
Search for Barcode Scanning Websites: Use a search engine like Google to web search barcode scanning websites. Ensure that the website you choose is authentic and does not look suspicious. Preferably, select one of the top three search results.
Visit the Website: Open the chosen barcode scanning website.
Upload the Barcode Image Files: Use the website’s upload feature to add an image of the barcode you want to scan.
View the Results: The website will process the barcode information and display the relevant information or perform the associated action.

How to Scan Barcodes on Windows or Mac Devices?

Windows and Mac devices now have dedicated stores where you can download third-party apps for scanning barcodes. Here’s how you can do it.

Using a Windows Device

Download a Barcode Reader Software: Search for and download a reputable barcode scanner software from the Microsoft Store.
Install the Software: Follow the installation instructions to install the software on your Windows device.
Open the Software: Launch the barcode scanner software.
Grant Permissions: Allow the software to access your camera or files if prompted.
Scan the Barcode: If using the camera, point it at the barcode. If uploading an image, use the software’s upload feature to add an image of the barcode.
View the Results: The software will process the barcode and display the relevant information or perform the associated action.

Using a Mac Device

Download a Barcode Scanner Software: Search for and download a reputable barcode scanner software from the Mac App Store.
Install the Software: Follow the installation instructions to install the software on your Mac device.
Open the Software: Launch the barcode scanner software.
Grant Permissions: Allow the software to access your camera or files if prompted.
Scan the Barcode: If using the camera, point it at the barcode. If uploading an image, use the software’s upload feature to add an image of the barcode.
View the Results: The software will process the barcode and display the relevant information or perform the associated action.

Conclusion

Scanning barcodes has become a simple and accessible task thanks to the advancements in technology. Whether you are using an iPhone, iPad, Android device, website, Windows, or Mac computer, convenient methods are available to suit your needs.

This guide has provided clear instructions on how to scan barcodes using various devices, ensuring you can quickly access the information you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Scan Barcodes on My Computer Without a Camera?

Yes, you can scan barcodes on your computer without a camera.

You can upload an image of the barcode to an online barcode scanning website or use barcode scanner software that allows file uploads.

Is It Safe to Use Online Barcode Scanning Websites?

While many online barcode scanning websites are safe, it is important to ensure the website is reputable and does not look suspicious. Preferably, choose one of the top three search results. Avoid websites that ask for unnecessary permissions or personal information.