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How Location QR Codes Work
A location QR code uses the standard geo: URI scheme to encode GPS coordinates (latitude and longitude). When someone scans the QR code with their smartphone, the device recognises the format and opens the native Maps application with a pin dropped at the exact coordinates you specified.
The geo: URI is universally supported on iOS, Android, and other mobile operating systems. It's the most portable way to share a precise location because it doesn't depend on any third-party service or URL — the coordinates are baked directly into the QR code. The Maps app that opens (Apple Maps on iOS, Google Maps on most Android devices) can then be used for navigation, directions, and additional location details.
Location QR vs. Google Maps URL QR Codes
You can create a location QR code either using GPS coordinates (geo: URI) or by encoding a Google Maps URL. Both approaches work, but they have different strengths.
Geo URI (coordinates): More universal, works on all devices, opens the native Maps app, and is the most direct approach. The downside: you need exact coordinates. Google Maps URL: More human-readable, works well on Android, but can be less reliable on iOS and depends on Google Maps URL format remaining stable. For maximum compatibility and reliability, geo: URI with coordinates is the better choice.
Finding Coordinates from Google Maps
You can easily find GPS coordinates for any location using Google Maps on your computer or phone. On desktop: go to Google Maps, search for or find your location, right-click on the spot, and the latitude/longitude will appear at the top of the context menu. Copy the coordinates in the format: 51.5074, -0.1278 (latitude first, then longitude).
On mobile, open Google Maps, long-press on the location, and the coordinates will appear at the bottom of the screen. Coordinates with five to six decimal places provide excellent accuracy (1–10 metres), which is sufficient for directing people to venues, events, delivery locations, or landmarks.
iOS vs. Android Maps App Handling
When a user scans a location QR code on an iPhone, the geo: URI opens Apple Maps with the pin at the specified coordinates. On most Android devices, it opens Google Maps. In either case, the user can view the location, request directions, and switch to alternative mapping apps if preferred.
The experience is seamless and transparent — users don't need to think about which Maps app is opening. They simply scan, the Maps app launches, and the location is shown. This universal compatibility across iOS and Android makes location QR codes exceptionally useful for physical venues and outdoor directions.