Free SMS QR Code Generator

What Is an SMS QR Code?

An SMS QR code opens the phone's native messaging app with a phone number and optional message body pre-filled. The user scans, reviews the message, and taps Send. It removes the friction of typing a number and composing a message from scratch.

How the SMS Format Works

This tool generates the sms: URI format:

sms:+15551234567?body=Hello%20there

Platform compatibility: The sms: scheme with ?body= works on both iOS and Android. The older SMSTO: format is also widely supported but is less standardized. This tool uses sms: for the broadest compatibility.

Note: The pre-filled message is a draft - the user must manually tap Send. The QR code cannot send a message automatically (this is a deliberate security restriction on all mobile platforms).

Best Use Cases

• Opt-in campaigns: Print "Scan to text JOIN to 55555" on flyers. The QR pre-fills the keyword so users just tap Send to subscribe.
• Customer feedback: Place an SMS QR at the checkout - "Scan to text us your feedback." Pre-fill "Feedback: " to route the message correctly.
• Event RSVPs: "Scan to RSVP" with a pre-filled message like "I'll attend the July meetup."
• Emergency contacts: Print an SMS QR on employee badges or equipment for quick incident reporting.

Best Practices

• Include country code: Always use international format (e.g., +15551234567) to ensure the QR works for international scanners.
• Keep the message short: Long pre-filled messages make QR codes denser and harder to scan. Aim for under 160 characters (one SMS segment).
• Print at 2 × 2 cm minimum: Standard minimum for close-range scanning. QR code best practices →
• Pair with a SMS link: Use the link version for digital channels (email, social) and the QR version for print.