How to create a QR code for app downloads
- Copy your store linksApp Store: apps.apple.com/app/id1234567890. Google Play: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.yourcompany.app.
- Choose one link or a smart linkFor both stores in one code, put the small redirect page below on your website, e.g. yoursite.com/app.
- Paste the link and design the codeUse a "GET THE APP" frame and your app icon as the logo.
- Test on an iPhone and an Android phoneEach should land on its own store page.
One code for both stores
A static QR code holds one link, and the App Store and Google Play have different links. The usual solution is a small page on your own website that checks the phone type and redirects. Put the code below on a page such as yoursite.com/app, then make your QR code for that address.
<!doctype html>
<meta charset="utf-8"><title>Get the app</title>
<script>
var ua = navigator.userAgent;
var ios = 'https://apps.apple.com/app/id1234567890';
var android = 'https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.example.app';
if (/iPhone|iPad|iPod/i.test(ua) || (/Macintosh/.test(ua) && 'ontouchend' in document)) location.replace(ios);
else if (/Android/i.test(ua)) location.replace(android);
</script>
<p><a href="https://apps.apple.com/app/id1234567890">Download on the App Store</a></p>
<p><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.example.app">Get it on Google Play</a></p>
Replace the two store links with yours. Desktop visitors see both buttons. Because the page lives on your domain, you can change the links later without reprinting the code, and your website analytics count the visits.
Finding your store links
| Store | How to get the link | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Apple App Store | App Store Connect → your app → App Information → "View on App Store", or Share in the App Store app | apps.apple.com/app/id1234567890 |
| Google Play | Play Console → your app, or Share on the Play Store page | play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.example.app |
| Huawei AppGallery | AppGallery Connect → your app → Share | appgallery.huawei.com/app/C123456789 |
The App Store link works without the country and app name parts (/us/app/my-app/id…); the short form makes a simpler code and opens the right country store automatically.
Where app QR codes work best
- In-store signs and checkout counters: "Order ahead with our app".
- Product packaging: companion apps, warranty registration, setup guides.
- Restaurant tables and receipts: loyalty apps.
- Event venues: the official event app, ticket wallet or map.
- TV, presentations and posters: where people can't tap a link.
Tips for more installs
- Say why: "Get 10% off your first order in the app" beats "Download our app".
- Use your app icon as the logo so people recognize what they're installing. Error correction H is applied automatically.
- Show the store badges next to the code for trust.
- Track campaigns. Google Play accepts
&referrer=utm_source%3Dposterand App Store Connect supports campaign links (?pt=…&ct=poster) so you can see which placement brings installs.
Troubleshooting
iPhone users land on Google Play. Your redirect page doesn't detect iPads that report themselves as Macs; the snippet above handles that case. Test with an iPhone, an iPad and an Android phone.
"Item not found" in Google Play. The package name is wrong, or the app isn't available in the visitor's country. Check the availability settings in Play Console.
The App Store opens in a browser. That happens when the link uses an old itunes.apple.com format. Use apps.apple.com.
Promote the app where people already are
| Place | Message |
|---|---|
| Checkout | "Skip the queue next time: order in the app" |
| Packaging | "Register your product and get updates" |
| Receipts | "Earn points on every order" |
| Restaurant tables | "Reorder from your table" |
Frequently asked questions
Can one QR code link to both the App Store and Google Play?
Yes, with a small redirect page on your website that detects the phone and sends it to the right store. The code itself points to that page.
Where do I find my App Store link?
Open your app in the App Store, tap Share → Copy link, or use App Store Connect. The short form apps.apple.com/app/id… works everywhere.
Where do I find my Google Play link?
It is play.google.com/store/apps/details?id= followed by your package name, e.g. com.example.app.
Can I track installs from a QR code?
Yes: use Google Play referrer parameters and App Store campaign links in the store URLs, and your website analytics for the redirect page.
Will the code break if I update my app?
No. Store links stay the same across app updates.
Is the app download QR code free?
Yes, with no expiry, no scan limits and no watermark.
Related free tools
Was this page helpful?
Last updated October 27, 2026 by the PloraKit team. Found a problem? Tell us.
Coming soon: Pro — dynamic QR codes Waitlist
Edit where a code points after you print it, and see scan analytics (time, city, device). Your free static codes here stay free and keep working forever — Pro is an optional extra.
We will send one email when Pro launches and nothing else. Contact: plorakit@gmail.com