thread Re: QR code scanning in Payments Troubleshooting

Can I use a compatible barcode scanner to accept Digital Gift Cards via QR code?

HannahPang — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:39:35 GMT

The title of this thread has been edited from the original: QR code scanning.

We are a café and would like to use digital gift cards (would need to scan a QR code on an apple wallet). We've purchased one of the recommended scanners (Symbol LS2208), but it will only scan paper copies of the barcodes, and doesn't seem to scan QR codes at all... any help please?!

Re: QR code scanning

Katie_SQ — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Hi @HannahPang!

Thank you for reaching out.

You are correct that the barcode scanners compatible with Square cannot scan QR codes. This is because traditional barcode scanners typically do not support QR code functionality, as QR codes operate differently from standard barcodes.

To help find a suitable alternative for your café, could you please provide more details about the digital gift cards you wish to accept?

Thanks! I look forward to your response. 🙂

Re: QR code scanning

HannahPang — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 10:09:27 GMT

Thanks for your response.

We're just looking for a scanner that's compatible for e-gift cards, which use QR codes through Apple pay.

Thank you

Re: QR code scanning

HannahPang — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 10:37:59 GMT

Ideally we'd like a barcode scanner (we sell lots of books in our café) and a QR code scanner - is there something that does both?!

Re: QR code scanning

Katie_SQ — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:44:44 GMT

Hi @HannahPang,

Thank you for your follow-up.

Is there a specific brand of gift card you're looking to accept where customers present a QR code for payment?

To clarify, Square does not support customer-presented QR codes for payment. However, we do accept digital wallet payments such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Clearpay. Customers using their digital wallet can simply tap their phone, just like a card, and our hardware will recognise the payment method.

Square is compatible with any UK-issued and most internationally-issued magstripe and chip debit and credit cards bearing the Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB, or UnionPay International logos. If your customers are using a gift card or eGift card from one of these brands, it may work by tapping the card or phone at the point of sale using Apple Pay or Google Pay. However, Square typically does not accept third-party gift cards.

Instead, we offer sellers the option to use Square Gift Cards and eGift Cards. For more information about our gift card offerings, please refer to the following articles in our Support Centre:

I hope this helps! If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out. 😊