If the QR code scanner on your OnePlus 15 is not working, simple tasks like scanning payment codes, Wi Fi logins, or website links suddenly become frustrating. Sometimes the scanner does not open at all, while other times it opens but fails to recognize codes. In most cases, the issue is caused by camera permissions, system settings, or temporary glitches that are easy to fix.
Why the QR Code Scanner on Your OnePlus 15 Is Not Working
- Camera permission for the scanner or camera app is disabled.
- The camera app cache is corrupted or outdated.
- Low lighting or dirty camera lens prevents proper scanning.
- The built in QR scanner feature is turned off in settings.
- Temporary system bugs after a recent update.
1. Check Camera Permission for the Scanner
The QR scanner relies entirely on camera access. If permission is blocked, the scanner may open but fail to detect any code.
Open Settings, and then tap Privacy.
Tap Permission manager, and then tap Camera.
Make sure the camera access is allowed for the Camera app or QR scanner feature.
2. Enable the Built In QR Code Scanner
On OnePlus phones, the QR scanner can be turned off accidentally. When disabled, scanning will not work even if the camera itself is fine.
Open Settings, and then tap Utilities.
Tap QR code scanner, and then turn the feature on.
Exit settings and try scanning a QR code again.
3. Clean the Camera Lens and Improve Lighting
A dirty lens or poor lighting can prevent the camera from focusing on QR codes. This often causes the scanner to keep searching without success.
Gently wipe the rear camera lens using a soft cloth, and then move to a well lit area.
Open the Camera app, and then point it steadily at the QR code.
Hold the phone still for a few seconds to allow it to focus.
4. Clear the Camera App Cache
Corrupted cache files can interfere with camera related features, including QR scanning. Clearing the cache refreshes the app without deleting your data.
Open Settings, and then tap Apps.
Tap Camera, and then tap Storage.
Tap Clear cache and reopen the Camera app to test the scanner.
5. Restart Your OnePlus 15
A restart refreshes background services and fixes temporary system errors. This step is simple, but it often resolves scanner issues instantly.
Swipe down from the top of the screen to open Quick Settings, and then tap the Power icon.
Tap Restart, and then wait for the phone to boot up completely.
Once restarted, try scanning a QR code again.
6. Use Google Lens as a Temporary Alternative
If the built in scanner still fails, Google Lens can scan QR codes reliably. This helps you confirm whether the issue is software related or camera related.
Open the Camera app, and then tap the Google Lens icon.
Point the camera at the QR code, and then wait for the result to appear.
If Google Lens works, the issue is likely limited to the QR scanner feature.
QR code scanning issues on the OnePlus 15 are usually easy to fix once you adjust permissions or refresh the camera app. After applying these steps, your phone should scan codes quickly and reliably again.
FAQs
Why does my OnePlus 15 scanner open but not scan anything?
This usually happens due to poor lighting, a dirty lens, or missing camera permission. Improving lighting and checking permissions often fixes it.
Can system updates break the QR code scanner?
Yes. Some updates may introduce temporary bugs that affect camera features. Restarting the phone or clearing the camera cache usually resolves the issue.
Is there a way to scan QR codes without the built in scanner?
Yes. Google Lens and some browser apps can scan QR codes if the native scanner is not working.
