One QR Code for the App Store and Google Play: Smart Redirect Explained
A smart redirect QR code detects the phone and sends iPhones to the App Store, Android to Google Play, and everyone else to a fallback page. Setup, placements, analytics, and a checklist.
Printing two QR codes, one for the App Store and one for Google Play, wastes space and makes people stop to think. A smart redirect QR code reads the device that scans it and sends iPhones to the App Store, Android phones to Google Play, and everyone else to a page you choose. One code, every platform. Here is how it works and how to set it up.
How a smart redirect QR code works
The code points to a QR Walrus short link. When it is scanned, our server looks at the phone's browser identification (the user agent), picks the matching destination, and issues a redirect in a few milliseconds. The phone never loads a page or downloads any script; it goes straight to the store listing. Because the decision happens on our side, you can change any of the three links later without reprinting.
Set it up
- Sign in and choose Smart redirect under Create QR. It is included in every paid plan and in the 7‑day Pro trial.
- Paste the App Store link (
apps.apple.com/…) and the Google Play link (play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=…). - Add a fallback URL for desktops, tablets you do not support, and unknown devices: usually your app's landing page with both store badges.
- Brand the code, add a "Scan to download" frame, download SVG.
Where to use it
| Placement | Tip |
|---|---|
| Posters and billboards | Make the code 1/10 of the viewing distance; add "Get the app" |
| Product packaging and manuals | Companion apps for hardware: put it on the first page of setup |
| In-store displays and receipts | Pair with a first-order incentive inside the app |
| Conference slides and booths | Keep it on screen long enough; 200 px minimum |
| Your website (desktop) | Visitors scan with their phone; the fallback never triggers for them |
| Business cards and email signatures | Small, so skip the logo and keep contrast high |
What the analytics add
Every scan is recorded with its operating system, so the dashboard tells you the iOS vs Android split per placement, which days spike, and which city each poster reaches. If you create a separate code per campaign you can compare install intent across channels before you look at store analytics. See scan analytics.
Beyond app stores
The same device-aware redirect is useful for anything with platform-specific links: Apple Wallet vs Google Wallet passes, iMessage vs RCS, or an iOS-only beta via TestFlight with an Android waitlist. Guide: app download QR codes.
Checklist
- Both store links open the correct listing when pasted into a browser.
- Fallback page shows both store badges and works on desktop.
- Tested by scanning the printed proof with an iPhone and an Android phone.
- A "Scan to download" CTA sits next to the code.
Create your app download QR code; one code for both stores, editable forever.
Frequently asked questions
How does the QR code know if the phone is iPhone or Android?
The code points to a short link; when scanned, the server reads the phone's browser identification and redirects to the matching store link. No page or script loads on the phone.
What happens on a desktop or an unsupported device?
It goes to the fallback URL you set, usually your app landing page with both store badges.
Can I change the store links later?
Yes. All three links are editable in the dashboard without changing the printed code.