SMS QR code generator
Make a QR code that opens a text message. Whoever scans it gets a new message to your number with the text already filled in. Handy for a sign-up, a vote or a quick question.
How it works
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Type your text or link
The code appears immediately as you type.
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Choose the settings
Size, colours and other options; the preview changes straight away.
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Download
As a PNG for a website or a document, or as an SVG for print.
How to use it
- Enter the Phone number, preferably with the country code. Spaces, brackets and dashes are removed for you.
- Type the Message (optional) that should be filled in beforehand.
- Download the code as a PNG or an SVG, whichever suits where it will be used.
What the number turns into
The tool strips spaces, brackets and dashes and then checks that what is left is a number. A few examples of what you type and what ends up in the code:
| You type | The code holds |
|---|---|
+44 (7700) 900-123 with the message JOIN |
SMSTO:+447700900123:JOIN |
07700 900123 with no message |
SMSTO:07700900123: |
+31612345678 and Hello! I'd like to know more. |
SMSTO:+31612345678:Hello! I'd like to know more. |
A number with letters in it, such as 07700 900123abc, is refused with a message, and so is anything shorter than 3 or longer than 15 digits. Use the number with its country code, like +447700900123, if people may scan from abroad, because a number without one only makes sense in its own country.
Does it work on every phone?
The SMSTO: format is the common one, but phones aren't consistent. Android phones and many scanner apps recognise it; for iPhones it differs per version. If the code is for the general public, test it with an Android phone and an iPhone before you print in bulk.
Ideas that work
A keyword code on a poster ("Text JOIN to enter"), a vote at an event, a "text us" sticker on a van. Use a different keyword for each place and your inbox tells you which poster people scanned. The person who scans still has to tap send. For email instead of text, use the email QR code generator. To hand out a full contact card, there is the vCard QR code generator.
Frequently asked questions
Does it work on iPhones as well as Android phones?
The code uses the `SMSTO:` format, which Android phones and many scanner apps read as a text message. iPhones often open it too, but that depends on the iOS version and on the scanner, so test the code on both kinds of phone before you print it.
Can I use a short code such as a 5-digit service number?
Yes. The number may be 3 to 15 digits, with an optional `+` in front, so short codes and full international numbers are both accepted. Anything else gets the message "A phone number consists of digits, optionally with a + in front."
Does the message have a length limit?
The code doesn't check the length, but a text message does. A plain message fits 160 characters; one with emoji or some accented letters switches encoding and fits only 70. Keep the text short, which also keeps the code easy to scan.
Who pays for the text?
The person who scans and sends it, at their normal rates. The code only fills in the message: they still have to tap send themselves.
Is the number uploaded or stored?
No. The code is built in your browser from what you type. Nothing is sent anywhere, and nothing is kept once you close the page.