SMS QR code
Set the number and the message. A scan opens the messaging app with both filled in, ready to send with one tap.
An SMS QR code opens the messaging app with your number and a message filled in, so people only tap Send. It is the simplest way to run a keyword opt-in such as Text JOIN, a vote, a raffle entry or a request to a business line. Enter the number and the message below and download the code.
Text JOIN in one tap
A poster invites people to join. The scan opens a message with the keyword typed, ready to send.
Templates for this code
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Text to join
A banner for sign-ups and competitions by text message.
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Booking text
Mint background for appointment cards and booking flyers.
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Vote card
A boxed code for polls and votes at events.
How to make an SMS QR code
Enter the receiving number
Use the full international format, such as +1 555 010 0123, or the short code your SMS provider gave you.
Write the message
Keep it to the keyword or a short phrase. The person can still edit it before sending.
Test on your own phone
Scan the preview and check that number and text arrive correctly. Do not send if the number belongs to a live campaign.
Download and add a call to action
Print a line like "Scan to text JOIN for weekly offers" next to the code.
Fixed or editable for SMS?
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Fixed QR code (static)
Fixed is free and opens the message directly, which suits a long-term number and keyword.
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Editable QR code (dynamic)
Choose editable when keywords change by campaign, or when the number may move to a new provider. You change the target in the app and the printed codes follow, and you see how many people scanned. It runs on a plan, a pass from $12 once, or the 14-day trial.
What SMS codes are good for
Keyword opt-ins
Text clubs and offers: the keyword is pre-typed, so fewer people get it wrong.
Votes and competitions
A different message per option makes counting replies easy, even without special software.
Callback requests
"Please call me back about a quote" sent to a sales line from a van, a sign or a brochure.
Parking, lockers and services
Pre-filled codes such as a bay number or locker ID sent to a service number cut typing mistakes.
Print tips for SMS codes
Print the number and keyword
Show "Text JOIN to 555 0100" in words too. Not every phone camera handles SMS codes the same way.
Short message, small code
A one-word keyword keeps the code coarse. A long message can double its density.
State the costs if any
If your service charges for messages, say so next to the code. Many countries require it.
Questions and answers
Before you print
- Is it free?
- Fixed codes are free: make as many as you like, download a PNG with no sign-up, and get every other format and print files with a free account. Editable codes come with a plan, a pass, Keep-alive or the 14-day trial.
- Can I change the link after printing?
- Yes, with an editable code. It holds a short link you control, so you can point the printed code somewhere new any time, and the next scan opens the new page. A fixed code keeps the link it was made with.
- Can I use my own domain?
- Yes. A custom domain is included on passes, from Starter, and during the trial. Starter covers one subdomain, for example go.yourbrand.com, and apex domains start on Pro.
- What happens if I stop paying?
- Editable codes work to the end of your paid period, and after a failed payment every code keeps working for 14 days. Turn codes back on within 12 months. Fixed codes keep working as long as their links do.
Does an SMS QR code send the message by itself?
No. It opens the messaging app with the number and text filled in. The person sees the message and decides to send it.
Do SMS QR codes work on iPhone?
Yes. iPhone and Android cameras both open the messaging app from an SMS code. On iPhone it opens Messages, on Android the default SMS app.
Can I use a short code number?
Yes, enter the short code your SMS provider assigned instead of a full phone number.
How long can the message be?
The generator accepts up to 1,000 characters, but a short keyword or one sentence works best. Long messages make the code denser and are rarely read before sending.
Is texting from the code free for the sender?
That depends on their mobile plan and on your service. Standard messages to normal numbers are part of most plans; premium short codes can cost money.
Turn a keyword into one tap
Enter the number and the message above, test it, and print it with a clear call to action.