Expert knowledge for digital decisions

How to use QR codes in an accessible way

Short answer

A QR code on its own is not accessible: people who cannot see it will not find it, and people without a smartphone cannot use it. It becomes accessible through an equivalent alternative – a spoken short address for typing, a phone number, or the information directly next to it.

Why a code alone is not sufficient

Visual impairment. A code is purely visual. Where it is and that it exists remains unknown.
No smartphone. Not everyone has one or can operate it.
Motor limitations. Keeping a phone steady on a small code is not possible for everyone.

What helps

A short, spoken address next to it. ouhud.com/anleitung can be typed and read aloud. This is the most effective single measure.

Tactile labeling for fixed installed codes – for example a Braille label or tactile marking, to make the location findable.

Alternative options: phone number, contact person, poster with the essential information.

The target page

It must also be accessible – otherwise you merely shift the barrier. Sufficient contrast, keyboard operability, alternative text, meaningful structure for screen readers.

The Accessibility Strengthening Act applies to certain offers since June 28, 2025.

In public areas

Authorities and public institutions have stricter requirements. A QR code as the sole access path to essential information is regularly unacceptable there.

The simple rule

The QR code is a shortcut, not a replacement. Everything accessible via it must also be accessible in other ways.

Key facts

Most effective measure: Short, spoken address next to it
Rule: The code is a shortcut, not the only way
Also necessary: Accessible target page

What we offer on this topic

Dynamic QR codes with branding, tracking and API access – for teams and businesses.

Ouhud QR

Sources

All external claims are backed by traceable sources.

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QR Code Standardization DENSO WAVE
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Point for determining the QR Code area DENSO WAVE