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).