Overview
An SMS QR code makes it easy for people to send you a text message. When scanned, it opens the device's messaging app with the phone number already filled in and, optionally, a pre-written message ready to send. This eliminates the need for the person to manually type a number or compose a message from scratch.
SMS QR codes use the standard sms: protocol, which is natively supported on all smartphones. No additional apps are required -- the code works with the default messaging app on both iOS and Android.
How to Create an SMS QR Code
Follow these steps to create your SMS QR code:
- Start a new QR code -- From your QR Dex dashboard, click the Create a QR Code button.
- Select the SMS type -- Choose "SMS" from the list of available QR code types.
- Enter the phone number -- Type the phone number that should receive the text message. Include the country code (e.g., +1 for the United States) to ensure the code works internationally.
- Add a pre-filled message (optional) -- Enter a default message that will appear in the compose window when the code is scanned. The person scanning can edit this text before sending.
- Customize the design -- Adjust colors, shapes, and optionally add a logo to match your brand identity.
- Save and download -- Give your QR code a descriptive name, click Save QR Code, and download it in the format you need.
Use Cases for SMS QR Codes
- Customer support -- Place an SMS QR code on product packaging, receipts, or in-store signage so customers can text your support line instantly. Pre-fill the message with something like "Hi, I need help with my order" to speed things up.
- Opt-in campaigns -- Use SMS QR codes for marketing opt-ins where customers scan to send a keyword like "JOIN" or "SUBSCRIBE" to your short code. This is a common pattern for loyalty programs and promotional lists.
- Quick responses and RSVP -- Include an SMS QR code on event invitations so guests can RSVP by simply scanning and sending a pre-filled "Yes, I'll attend" message.
- Appointment reminders -- Add an SMS QR code to appointment confirmation pages or printed reminders, pre-filled with a message like "Confirm my appointment on [date]."
- Feedback collection -- Place QR codes at checkout counters or on tables at restaurants, pre-filled with a prompt like "My experience today was..." to gather quick, informal feedback.
Best Practices
- Include the country code -- Always include the full international dialing code with your phone number. A number like
+14155551234 will work globally, while a local format like (415) 555-1234 may not work on devices in other countries.
- Keep pre-filled messages short -- SMS messages have a 160-character limit for a single segment. While modern phones handle longer messages seamlessly, keeping it brief respects the user's time and avoids unexpected carrier charges.
- Make the message editable -- Pre-filled text is a helpful starting point, but users should feel free to modify it. Avoid making the message so specific that it cannot be personalized.
- Monitor the receiving number -- Make sure the phone number you use is actively monitored by someone on your team. Unanswered text messages create a poor experience for the people reaching out.
- Test on both platforms -- Scan and test your SMS QR code on both an iPhone and an Android device. The
sms: protocol is handled slightly differently across operating systems, so verifying on both ensures a smooth experience.
How It Works Technically
SMS QR codes encode an sms: URI containing the phone number and optional message body. When a smartphone camera recognizes the code, the operating system intercepts the URI and opens the default messaging application with the fields pre-populated. The user simply taps "Send" to complete the message.
Because the SMS data is encoded directly in the QR code pattern, no internet connection is needed to open the compose window. The device only needs cellular service to actually send the text message.