No, Google Home Assistant does not have the ability to scan QR codes directly.

Devices like the Google Nest Hub or other Google Home products lack built-in cameras or software designed for QR code scanning.

However, you can use your smartphone, which is typically connected to Google Assistant, to scan QR codes and perform related tasks.

Here’s how you can work around this limitation and use Google Assistant to streamline tasks involving QR codes.

Workarounds for QR Code Scanning with Google Assistant

Although Google Home devices cannot scan QR codes, your smartphone’s Google Lens feature, integrated with Google Assistant, can handle this functionality.

How to Use Google Lens for QR Code Scanning

1. Activate Google Lens:
   • On Android:
     • Open the Google Assistant by saying “Hey Google” or pressing the Assistant button.
     • Tap the Lens icon (camera symbol) on the bottom right.
   • On iOS:
     • Open the Google App, tap the Lens icon in the search bar.
2. Point Your Camera at the QR Code:
   • Align the QR code within the frame.
3. Follow the Link or Action:
   • Google Lens will automatically detect the QR code and provide options to open links, copy text, or perform other actions.

Also Read: How to Configure Regional Settings in Google Home Assistant

How Google Assistant Can Assist with QR Code Tasks

While it cannot scan QR codes, Google Assistant can assist in managing or following up on QR-related tasks.

1. Access QR Code Information

• Use Google Assistant to open links or perform actions based on QR code data.
  • Example Command:
    • “Hey Google, open the link from the QR code I scanned.”

2. Set Reminders for QR Code Usage

• If you have a QR code for an event, coupon, or document, Google Assistant can remind you to use it.
  • “Hey Google, remind me to use the event QR code at 5 PM.”

3. Store QR Code Data in Google Keep

• Save the information from QR codes in Google Keep for later reference.
  • After scanning with Google Lens, copy the link or data and say:
    • “Hey Google, save this to my notes.”

Devices That Can Scan QR Codes

To work around Google Home Assistant’s limitations, you can use the following devices:

1. Smartphones:
   • Android and iOS devices with Google Lens.
2. Dedicated QR Code Apps:
   • Use apps like QR Code Reader or Barcode Scanner for additional features like history tracking.
3. Smart Displays with Cameras:
   • Devices like Amazon Echo Show, which have QR scanning capabilities, can serve as alternatives if scanning QR codes is a priority.

Also Read: How to Enable Incognito Mode on Google Home Assistant

Quick FAQs

1. Can Google Nest Hub Scan QR Codes?
No, Google Nest Hub lacks the camera functionality required for scanning QR codes.

2. Does Google Assistant Support QR Code Scanning on Phones?
Yes, Google Lens, integrated with Google Assistant on smartphones, can scan QR codes.

3. Can I Save QR Code Data Using Google Assistant?
Yes, you can save QR code data by scanning with Google Lens and storing the information in Google Keep or other apps.

4. Are There Alternatives to Google Home for QR Code Scanning?
Yes, devices like smartphones, tablets, and certain smart displays with cameras can scan QR codes.

5. Can Google Assistant Automate Actions from QR Codes?
Not directly, but you can use scanned QR data with Google Assistant for actions like opening links or setting reminders.

Also Read: How to Set Up Voice-Activated Timers on Google Home Assistant

Conclusion

While Google Home Assistant cannot directly scan QR codes, you can use Google Lens on your smartphone to handle this task. Google Assistant complements this process by helping you manage scanned data, set reminders, or perform related actions. For users who require frequent QR code scanning, smartphones or alternative devices with built-in QR code functionality are the best solutions.