Free SMS QR Code Generator
Generate a QR code that opens a pre-drafted SMS message when scanned - ready to send with one tap.
Must start with your country code - e.g. +27 82 123 4567 or +1 202 555 1234.
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How to create an SMS QR code
Enter the phone number you want messages sent to, including the country code. Add an optional pre-filled message - a short prompt or enquiry template. Click Generate SMS QR Code, then download as PNG or SVG. Anyone who scans the code will have a text message ready to send in their messaging app.
What is an SMS QR code?
An SMS QR code encodes an sms: URI. When scanned, the phone opens its native messaging app with the number and optional pre-filled text ready. Unlike WhatsApp QR codes, SMS QR codes work with any phone that can send a standard text message - no third-party app required.
SMS QR codes versus WhatsApp QR codes
SMS QR codes are more universally compatible because they rely on the native messaging app. Every phone can send an SMS. WhatsApp QR codes are more feature-rich - the conversation happens inside WhatsApp, which supports media, read receipts, and business profiles - but require the scanner to have WhatsApp installed. For maximum reach, SMS is the safer choice; for businesses whose customers are already WhatsApp users, WhatsApp is often more effective.
When to use an SMS QR code
SMS QR codes are useful anywhere you want customers to reach you without typing: business cards, appointment reminder cards, retail signage, event flyers, product packaging, and takeaway menus. A pre-filled message like "I'd like to book an appointment" or "Please call me back" reduces friction and increases the chance that someone acts after scanning.
Frequently asked questions
What does an SMS QR code do?
When someone scans an SMS QR code, their phone opens the messaging app with a new message addressed to the encoded number. If a pre-filled message was set, it appears in the message field ready to send or edit. The recipient just taps Send.
Does this work on iPhone and Android?
Yes. The sms: URI scheme is supported natively on both iOS and Android. Scanning the code opens the default messaging app on the device, whether that is iMessage, Android Messages, or a third-party SMS app.
Should I include the country code?
Yes, for best cross-device compatibility. Use the full international format without spaces or symbols - for example +12025551234 for a US number or +447911123456 for a UK number. Omitting the country code may cause the SMS to fail for scanners in other countries.
What should the pre-filled message say?
Keep it short and action-oriented. Examples: "I'd like to book a table for Saturday", "Please send me your price list", or "Hi, I saw your sign and would like more info." The scanner can edit or delete the message before sending, so a prompt or context sentence works well.
Is this different from a WhatsApp QR code?
Yes. An SMS QR code opens the native messaging app (standard SMS/MMS). A WhatsApp QR code opens the WhatsApp app specifically. Use SMS if you want to reach people regardless of which messaging app they have installed; use WhatsApp if your audience is likely to be WhatsApp users.
Is this tool free?
Yes, completely free. No account is required and there are no usage limits. All encoding happens in your browser - your phone number and message are never sent to any server.
Can I print this QR code?
Yes. Download the SVG version for print - it scales to any size without quality loss. For small formats like business cards, a minimum of 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm is recommended. For larger formats like posters or window stickers, scale up proportionally.
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