How to Make a Scanner App in 2025: A Complete Guide

If you're going to design a QR code scanner app for your business. Then you should be here at this correct website. Here in this blog, we have extensively described the QR code scanner app.

Time is going at a rapid pace, and along with that, technology is changing daily. Hence, the QR code scanner app is essential for every enterprise to take a step towards modernization and digitalization.

Through the use of this app, long code writing can be avoided along with the effort of searching for something.

Whether it is an online shopping app like Amazon or an online payment app like Paytm, everywhere you can find the usage of QR Code scanner apps.

So, without wasting time, let's read more.

Market Size & Stats About Barcode Scanner App

According to 360iResearch, the worldwide market for barcode scanners is growing at an impressive rate due to the growing need for effective inventory management and the growth in e-commerce.

The market had an estimated worth of approximately USD 7.16 billion in 2023 and was to grow to USD 10.72 billion in 2030, with an annual compounded growth rate of 5.92%.

Conversely, another report projects a higher growth rate, envisioning the market growing from USD 5.98 billion in 2022 to USD 14.45 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 11.9%.

Remarkably, these variations in prediction suggest that technological developments, adoption rates among industries, and shifts in regional markets significantly impact the barcode scanner market.

Barcode scanning technology will probably keep shifting the market's growth trajectory towards 2030 in various industries, such as retail, medicine, logistics, etc.

What Is A QR Code?

QR code is a modern “Quick Response” technology used as robust software for the instant sharing of information.

The QR code scanner app is a 2D (2-dimensional) barcode with small black patterns, mainly squares, with a white background.

These boxes are typically arranged in a horizontal and vertical format, which the machine can read to extract the information in a grid.

Your device doesn't need an internet connection to extract or read details or any information through a QR code, as they are available as hyperlinks or texts.

Initially, a Japanese automotive company developed and used QR technology in 1994. They used it to manage the automotive components at their warehouse.

Because of their efficiency and large data storage capacity, QR codes have easily become popular in the automotive business industry. The data QR uses four standards for encoding: numeric, alphanumeric, kanji, and byte.

QR codes not only store Japanese and Latin symbols, but they can also store images, emails, and even music.

QR code scanner apps have undergone many changes in recent years, and you must take advantage of this latest QR technology. We can fully assist you with the QR code scanner app development or any further queries.

Latest Read: How to Integrate a Payment Gateway into a Website?

How does the Barcode Scanner Work?

A barcode scan is a machine that utilizes the beam light to scan and electronically convert printed barcodes. After the barcodes are translated, they are decoded, and the information is transferred to the system.

The scanner consists of a lens, a light sensor, and a light source that converts optical impulses into electrical signals.

In addition, the scanner also consists of a decoder that scans the given image and outputs it through the output port. After the image is scanned, the data is forwarded to the host system so that it may perform appropriate action.

We are aware that every bar code is represented by line strength and white spaces within it. So, in short, the decoder reads whatever the signals are and translates them into a language that is understandable to us.

This is the overall concept of the barcode scanner app development. Not only this, the decoder is also capable of dropping data into Excel databases.

If you have an online or offline shop that handles many products and you cannot keep an inventory manually, then with special application software, you can ensure that once the scanning is complete, the product is tagged in the inventory and updated.

With automated inventory management, it is simpler to prevent human errors. It simplifies it to fit in with tasks like managing assets, tracking point-of-sale transactions, and inventory tracking.

Reducing it all into simpler terms.

Let's further examine what type of barcode scanners can simplify it for the barcode scanner and how it can operate. Bar code scanners possess the following sub-classes:

Handheld: They are the most conventional and come in corded and cordless varieties.

Presentation: It is a wall-mount scanner that allows clients to sift through many things. It is otherwise referred to as a multi-plane or on-counter scanner.

In-counter: It resembles a show scanner, but again, it is inside the counter instead of on top.

Multi-Purpose PCs: These scanners operate two-in-one. They act as a PC and a barcode scanner simultaneously.

Fixed Mount Scanner: The type of scanner that does not require manual holding. These barcode scanners can be fixed on the doors or the walls, and as soon as any object with a barcode passes in front of them, they trigger an alarm.

Wearable Scanners: These are the type of scanners that the user will typically wear to assist in scanning the client.

These are unique methods of applying a scanner to the most optimal uses. You can contact our experts for an AI-powered barcode scanner.

Also Read: How to Create an Online Payment Apps

Benefits of Barcode or QR Code Scanner App Development

Below are the most important benefits of mobile apps for businesses looking to develop a barcode scanner app:

1. Improved Efficiency and Speed

Barcode scanning simplifies data entry, significantly shortening the time required to process information compared to manual entry. This results in faster operations, particularly in inventory and checkout procedures.

2. Reduced Human Errors

Manual entry of data is error-prone. A barcode scanner application provides greater accuracy by reducing the likelihood of errors in inventory management, billing, or product tracking.

3. Cost-Effective Solution

Mobile barcode scanner applications prevent companies from spending money on costly dedicated scanning devices. Organization teams can use smartphones or tablets to scan and cut equipment expenses.

4. Real-Time Data Access

Most barcode apps are connected with cloud services, enabling users to upload and retrieve data in real time. This facilitates inventory tracking, shipments, or assets with real-time updates.

5. Versatile Application

Barcode scanning apps are compatible with POS, ERP, or CRM systems. They are extremely customizable to meet a variety of business purposes — from retail checkout to stock-take in a warehouse.

6. Better Inventory Management

Barcode scanning enables accurate stock level tracking, reducing both overstocking and stockouts. It also facilitates quick and error-free audits or cycle counts.

7. Enhanced Customer Experience

Retailers can use barcodes for price checks, product lookups, or speedy checkout, enhancing customer satisfaction and cutting down waiting times.

8. Support for Multiple Barcode Formats

Contemporary barcode reader applications may support multiple formats such as QR code, Code 128, UPC, and Data Matrix to facilitate flexibility in usage scenarios among different industries.

9. Offline Functionality

Numerous applications can cache scanned data offline and sync once online for availability in distant or low-network environments.

10. Scalability

As your company expands, the barcode scanner application can readily be expanded or upgraded to accommodate additional features, users, or locations with no extra expenses.

Know: Biggest Challenges Faced in Application Development with their solutions

How to Develop a Scanner App: Step-by-Step Process

This is a step-by-step division of creating a QR scanner app:

1. Define the Purpose and Target Audience

Before jumping into development, clearly define the purpose of your QR scanner app. Is it for inventory management, ticket checking, or might be used as an online payment app? And what about the product details? Having a use case in mind will help you decide on the required features and platform (Android, iOS, or both).

2. Choose the Technology Stack

Pick the right technologies depending on your target platform. For native development:

• Android: Kotlin or Java, using Android Studio
• iOS: Swift or Objective-C, using Xcode
• Cross-platform (both): Flutter, React Native, or Xamarin

You must also employ a good QR code scanning library such as ZXing, ML Kit, or ZBar.

3. Plan the App Features

Sketch out the main and secondary features your QR scanner app will possess. Typical features are:

• QR code scanning via camera
• Scan the history log
• Flashlight toggle for low-light scanning
• Generate QR codes (optional)
• Support for different formats (QR, barcode)

Integration with external APIs or internal systems

4. Design the User Interface (UI/UX)

Develop wireframes and mockups that determine the way users interact with the app. Prioritize the below for the UI/UX design:

• A simple, intuitive structure
• Simple scan instructions
• One-click access to previous scan history
• Easy camera and permission alerts

Figma or Adobe XD can be employed to align with the best UI design principles.

5. Set Up the Development Environment

Install the needed IDEs and configure your development environment:

• Android Studio for Android apps
• Xcode for iOS apps
• VS Code or Android Studio for cross-platform tools like Flutter

Install necessary SDKs, libraries, and permissions (like camera access).

6. Implement QR Scanning Functionality

Integrate the QR scanning library and enable the app to access the device’s camera. This step involves:

• Setting camera permissions
• Accessing the camera feed
• Detecting and decoding QR codes
• Displaying results to the user

Make sure to gracefully handle cases like camera permission denial or unreadable QR codes.

7. Develop Additional Features

Once the core scanning functionality is in place, add any additional features like:

• Saving scan history
• QR code generation
• Sharing scanned results
• Analytics and performance monitoring

Ensure these features make the app more usable and don't bloat the interface.

8. Test the App Thoroughly

Test thoroughly to guarantee reliability on various devices:

• Unit testing for individual functions
• UI testing for user interface flow
• Device testing on various screen sizes and OS versions
• Performance testing to ensure smooth scanning and minimal lag

Fix bugs and optimize the speed of loading and scanning.

9. Deploy to App Stores

Once the app is stable, prepare it for launch and put it on the App Store or Google Play Store, or both:

• Develop app store listings (name, description, screenshots, icon)
• Adhere to Play Store (Android) and App Store (iOS) guidelines
• Put the app in for review and approval

Clarify privacy policies and user permission.

10. Maintain and Update the App

After release, collect user feedback and resolve bugs reported. Deploy frequent updates to:

• Introduce new features
• Enhance scanning performance
• Ensure OS update compatibility
• Repair cybersecurity loopholes

Regular maintenance is essential for long-term success.

Read: SaaS MVP Development: A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your First Product

Features To Add in a Scanner App

You can add whatever features you desire for your QR code scanner app. Below, we have mentioned a few features of QR code scanner:

1. Scanning QR Code

Using this feature, your user is able to fetch information on the product and content type. Your users are able to view the following specifications after scanning the product name, store price, manufacturer details, photographs, etc

2. Barcode Scanner

Enable your users to scan barcodes through your QR code scanner app. This will increase the user-friendliness of your QR code.

3. QR Code Generator

Because of this feature, users can easily create a personalized QR code if they have purchased your QR code scanner app's subscription.

4. Folder

With this feature, your user can save or store the code scanner details after scanning the code. Retrieving one's personalized QR code and other scanned codes from the folder is easy. One can save these QR codes in a folder such as weblinks, email, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc.

5. Scan History

This option allows the user to scan their history. All their past searches or scanned history is stored as web links, texts, emails, etc.  Users can arrange their history or remove their scanning details as they desire.

6. Search

This is a basic facility that users may utilize to search for product information or any other information about the scanner. Anyone can easily search for anything online using QR codes and barcodes.

7. Batch Scan

The users can scan multiple codes with the assistance of this feature. This will again be a highly critical feature for your QR code scanner application. Implementing this feature so that your application becomes more user-friendly.

8. Filter

The users can use the filter according to their needs. Due to the assistance of this feature, reading the earlier codes will become very easy and convenient.

9. App Lock

Make the application lockable for users so it cannot be misused. We consider security to be the greatest concern for every user. Thus, adding this feature to your QR code scanning application is of extreme importance.

10. Subscription

The subscription model is one of the best app monetization strategies. Users can subscribe to the premium services by paying a certain amount of subscription fee. It can be used when your app is extremely popular. At first, you can provide free services, but afterward, you can include this feature in your app.

Recommended Read: MVP in Software Development: A Complete Overview

Who Do You Need to Create a Barcode Scanner App?

You’ll usually require a diverse team with the following responsibilities to produce a barcode scanner app:

1. App Developer(s)

Skilled programmers with prior expertise creating mobile applications for the platforms of your choice (cross-platform app development, Android, or iOS app development), with the ability to incorporate barcode scanning app features through an SDK or library.

2. UI/UX Designer

A UI/UX designer who will ensure that your app's interface and design elements are intuitive so that users can easily scan barcodes.

3. QA Tester

The QA and Testing Team consists of quality assurance testers who can test the application fully, ensuring that it will work well and scan barcodes accurately under any device and environment conditions.

4. Project Manager

A project manager analyzes the development process, assigns tasks, manages deadlines, and ensures that team members communicate well, by efficiently using the project management tools.

5. Backend Developer

A backend developer must handle server-side responsibilities if your application requires backend services for data integration or storage.

6. Business Analyst (Optional)

A business analyst can assist in defining the features and functionality of your barcode scanning app, depending on its complexity and your business requirements.

However, you can make your work easier and hire a custom mobile app development company, like Arramton Infotech, to take the burden off your hands.

Also Read: 12 AI Testing Tools to Streamline Your QA Process in 2025

How Much Does IT Cost to Build a Barcode Scanner Mobile App?

The price of developing a barcode scanner app can significantly depend on multiple factors such as the app's complexity, platform (iOS, Android, or both), technology used, location and rate of the development team, and any extra features or integrations you need.

Developing a barcode scanner app making charges may vary between $10,000 to $15,000 for a simple app and $10,000 or more for a sophisticated, feature-laden app involving prolonged development and software testing work.

It's best to talk to application development experts or agencies who can give a more realistic quote according to your specific project requirements and objectives.

Read: What is AI Analytics: Benefits, Uses, Key Elements, Challenges, and More

Which Industries Benefit the Most from Scanner App Development?

Scanner app development—especially for barcode and QR code scanning—benefits industries by enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and automation. The following are the industries that are most benefited:

1. Retail and E-commerce

Use Case in eCommerce Businesses: Product identification, price checks, stock management, mobile POS, and customer rewards.

Benefits: Quicker checkout, real-time inventory updates, and improved customer engagement through loyalty programs or mobile offers.

2. Logistics and Supply Chain

Use Case in Supply Chain and Logistics: Tracking shipments, scanning packages, warehouse inventory management.

Benefits: Simplified processes, manual error reduction, real-time tracking of commodities, and delivery route optimization.

3. Healthcare

Use Case in Healthcare Businesses: Patient identification, medication tracking, lab sample labeling, and equipment inventory.

Benefits: Improved patient safety, fewer medication errors, and effective asset management in hospitals and laboratories.

4. Manufacturing

Use Case in Manufacturing Businesses: Tracking parts, quality control, product assembly validation.

Benefits: Increased production precision, real-time monitoring of assembly lines, and traceability of parts.

5. Hospitality and Events

Use Case: Digital tickets, guest check-in, QR room access, menu scanning.

Benefits: Speedier check-ins, contactless service, and a contemporary customer experience.

6. Education

Use Case: Scanning of student IDs, library book management, tracking of attendance.

Benefits: Less administrative burden, improved resource tracking, and easier access control.

7. Banking and FinTech

Use Case in Banking & Fintech Businesses: Mobile payments, identity verification (KYC), QR transactions.

Benefits: Improved security, smooth customer onboarding, and contactless transactions.

8. Government and Public Services

Use Case: Document scanning, utility billing, identity verification.

Benefits: Transparency, swift service delivery, and fraud detection and prevention.

Top 5 QR Code Scanner Apps You Can Try

Now, if you still doubt the QR code scanner app and are concerned about its future use. Then, let us inform you that there are a lot of popular QR code scanner apps that users utilize. In this section, we will be talking about popular QR code scanner apps:

• TrendMicro’s QR Code scanner
• QR & Barcode Reader by Gamma Play
• QR Code Reader by TeaCapps
• QR & Barcode Reader by QR SCAN Team
• QR Scanner by Simple Design

Wrapping Up!

As we step further into 2025, scanner apps—particularly those that use barcode and QR code technology—are becoming integral tools across various industries.

Their flexibility and efficiency cannot be beaten, from automating retail operations and increasing healthcare safety to enabling logistics, education, and fintech services. If you are planning to create a scanner app, having the appropriate technology partner is imperative.

At Arramton Infotech, we have expertise in developing robust, scalable, and intuitive Android and iOS app development services customized to your business requirements.

With a pool of skilled developers and designers, we are poised to turn your scanner app concept into reality—be it for inventory tracking, digital check-ins, secure payments, or any other custom application.

Let us assist you in unleashing the true power of mobile technology. Reach out to Arramton Infotech, a leading ios and Android app development company in Delhi, and begin creating your next-gen scanner app.

FAQs on Scanner Apps:

Q. How much does it cost to develop a barcode-scanning app?

Ans: The price to develop a barcode scanning app can range from extremely low, depending on complexity, tech stack, development team rates, and more. Simple applications can cost between $10,000 and $12,000, and high-end, feature-intense apps costing up to $50,000.

Q. What programming language is used in the barcode scanner?

Ans: The programming language employed by a barcode scanner application varies with the platform you're developing for. Android, Java, and Kotlin are typical programming languages. For iOS, you can program with Swift or Objective-C. When you develop a cross-platform app, you can use programming languages such as JavaScript (e.g., using React Native) or C# (e.g., using Xamarin).

Q. How to create a barcode scanner app?

Ans: In order to develop a barcode scanner app, you should take these general steps:

1. Decide on a development platform (iOS, Android, or both).

2. Pick a barcode scanning library or SDK for your development platform.

3. Install your development environment (for example, Android Studio for Android or Xcode for iOS).

4. Incorporate the barcode scanning library or SDK into your app.

5. Create a user interface for the app, such as a camera view to scan.

6. Add barcode scanning functionality via the library or SDK.

7. Process data scanned and handle user interactions.

8. Test the app thoroughly and publish it on app stores.