This is a common real-world problem: the QR scans, but the link fails or behaves strangely inside an app’s built-in browser (Instagram/TikTok/WeChat/Discord/etc). Most failures come from redirects, blocked domains, or heavy landing pages.
Symptoms (what users see)#
- Blank page / “Can’t open this page” inside an app browser
- Opens a weird intermediate page (too many redirects)
- Loads extremely slowly on mobile data
- Works in Safari/Chrome, but fails in-app
Fix #1: Use HTTPS and reduce redirects#
In-app browsers are stricter and sometimes break on long redirect chains. Best practice: your QR should point to a clean HTTPS URL that responds fast.
https://example.com/landing
http://... -> redirect -> tracking -> redirect -> app deep link
Fix #2: Avoid “fragile” short links and expiring links#
Some shorteners get blocked in certain apps or regions. Also avoid links that expire (temporary share links). If you need a shorter QR, create a stable short destination on your own domain (see: Short URL strategy).
Fix #3: Make the landing page “in-app friendly”#
- Keep it lightweight (fast LCP). In-app browsers often run slower.
- Show a clear primary action (Open menu / Join WiFi instructions / Contact us).
- Include a Copy link option as fallback.
- If needed, include a “Open in browser” hint for users (some apps hide the menu).
If you need tracking, do it without breaking scans#
UTMs are fine, but long URLs make denser QRs and can slow down link handling. Prefer a clean landing URL with short UTMs. See: UTM tracking for QR.
Fast debug routine (10 minutes)#
- Scan using iPhone Camera and Android Camera.
- Then scan inside a couple of apps (Instagram/TikTok/WhatsApp/Discord) if your users come from there.
- If it fails only in-app: remove redirects, ensure HTTPS, simplify the landing page.
- If it fails everywhere: fix print/contrast/size first (see not scanning checklist).