Home / Guides / URL/Phone/SMS/Email/Maps QR payloads: what scanners do after scanning ← All guides URL/Phone/SMS/Email/Maps QR payloads: what scanners do after scanning Practical payload formats (tel:, sms:, mailto:, geo:) and tips so users land on the expected action screen on iOS/Android.
How we verify this guide
Before this page is included in the public guide directory, its examples are compared with the payload produced by the linked QRFlow generator and with the export and scan-readiness controls available in the current build. Camera, lighting, paper, print size, and destination apps can still change the result, so important print runs should always be tested on the final material and real devices.
Scanners don’t just “read a QR” — they interpret the payload into an action (open a website, call a number, compose an email).
Phone (dial screen)
tel:+14155552671 SMS (compose)
sms:+14155552671?body=Hello%20QRFlow Email (compose)
mailto:hello@example.com?subject=Hi&body=Message Maps (location)
https://maps.google.com/?q=48.8584,2.2945 Practical tips # Always test both iPhone and Android (behavior differs for sms/mailto parameters). Encode full international phone numbers with “+”. For Maps, using a normal HTTPS maps URL is the most universal. Templates you can use # Recommended templates URL QR Code
Convert a website link to a QR code instantly, then download a clean SVG or PNG.
Redirect QR Code
Create a redirect QR code for campaigns, menus, packaging, posters, and any QR that may need a controlled destination path.
Business Card QR Code
Create a vCard QR and complete front/back business card artwork with real trim, bleed, safe-area, and print checks before ordering cards.
WiFi QR Code
Create the WiFi QR and a print-sized guest card or fold tent locally, then scan-test the physical result on iPhone and Android.
YouTube QR Code
Turn the right YouTube destination into a QR code, then check the scan flow before using it on posters, packaging, slides, or merch.
Instagram QR Code
Create an Instagram profile QR on desktop/web and download PNG or SVG for cards, packaging, posters, creator kits, or quick sharing.
Use cases & print ideas Matching pages that explain where this QR type works best before you open the generator.
Exact WIFI: payload format, what “Encryption” means, and how to avoid scan failures on iPhone/Android (special chars, hidden networks).
Which vCard fields actually get saved on iOS/Android, what to keep minimal, and how to avoid bloating the QR for better scans.
Use a Google Maps place link or directions link, then print a QR for storefronts, parking, pickup, invitations, and event wayfinding.
Use a bulk QR code generator to create many QR codes from CSV or a list. CSV format examples, file naming, and print tips.
Use 20-25 mm (0.8-1.0 in) for most business cards. Includes minimum size guidance for short URLs, larger sizing for vCards, quiet zone rules, and a card dimensions chart.
Create a Discord QR code for server invites, avoid expiring links, and share safely.
Quick answers Common questions Which payload is most reliable? Standard URL and tel: formats work best across devices.
Do SMS and email parameters always work? Behavior varies by device, so test on iPhone and Android.
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