How to use it
- Enter the mobile number in international format (+1…).
- Write a short pre-filled message or keyword.
- Style the code and test it with your phone.
- Download PNG, SVG or PDF.
How a text message QR code works
An SMS QR code stores a phone number and a message in the SMSTO: format:
SMSTO:+15551234567:CALLBACK
When scanned, the phone opens its messaging app with the number and text filled in. Nothing is sent automatically: the person sees the message, can edit it, and taps Send. Standard message rates from their own carrier apply, just as if they had typed it.
Current iPhone and Android cameras generally recognize this format. If an older phone shows only raw text, the number can still be copied from there.
Everything happens in your browser; the number and message are not uploaded.
Use cases: keyword texts
An SMS QR code works best when you want the same short message from many people.
| Use | Pre-filled text |
|---|---|
| Request a callback | CALLBACK |
| Book a service visit | BOOK + day |
| Vote at an event | VOTE 3 |
| Enter a giveaway | ENTER |
| Report a problem on a machine | ISSUE unit-12 |
| Ask for a quote from a yard sign | QUOTE + address |
Tip: use one plain uppercase keyword without emoji. It keeps the code short and is easy to process, whether you read texts yourself or use an SMS inbox service.
If people only need to call you, a phone number QR code is simpler. For longer, structured messages, use an email QR code.
Entering the number and message
- International format:
+1 555 123 4567. Spaces, dashes and parentheses are removed for you, and the + form works from any country. - Use a mobile number or a text-enabled business line; many landlines can't receive texts.
- Keep it short. Every character goes into the code, and the person can add details anyway.
- Emoji and accented letters work but make the code longer and can split a text into several parts.
- No message is fine too: only the number will be filled in.
Test it: scan the code with another phone, send the text, and check exactly what arrives.
If it doesn't open as expected: a phone that shows only plain text is using an older scanner app, so print the number and keyword next to the code. An empty message box means the message field was left blank. If the text never arrives, the number probably can't receive SMS.
Design, placement and compliance
Style it in the same studio as the main QR code generator. The label matters most here, because people don't expect a text message to open: "Scan to text us for a callback." For polls, make one code per option, with a large label and a different frame color for each.
Size: one tenth of the scanning distance, at least 0.8 in (2 cm); a poster read from 6–10 feet needs 7–12 in. Format: PDF or SVG for print, PNG for screens. The live scan test confirms the code decodes to exactly your number and text.
Good practice: tell people they'll be sending a text, reply with a short confirmation, and never ask for sensitive data. If you plan to send marketing texts to the numbers you collect, US rules such as the TCPA require prior consent; check what applies to you before you start.
Static codes can't be edited, so don't print a permanent sign for a number you might change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the QR code send the text automatically?
No. It opens a pre-filled message, and the person decides whether to send it.
Who pays for the text?
The person sending it, under their own carrier plan, as with any text they type.
Does it work on iPhone?
Current iPhone and Android cameras generally recognize SMS QR codes. Test with both before printing.
Does the SMS QR code expire?
No. It's static and works as long as the number does.
Is my phone number uploaded?
No. The code is generated in your browser.