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How to Scan Product Barcodes With Your Device’s Camera on Shopify POS

Sam|
October 22, 2024|
3 min read

Shopify POS makes managing your inventory incredibly convenient and streamlines your checkout process, even without dedicated barcode scanners. You can leverage the camera on your iOS or Android device to scan product barcodes directly, quickly adding items to the cart and speeding up transactions.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to use this feature, which will make your in-person sales experience even more efficient.

Step-by-step to Scan Product Barcodes With Your Device’s Camera on Shopify POS

To scan product barcodes using your device’s camera in the Shopify POS app, follow these steps:

  • Step 1. Make sure the Shopify POS app has permission to use your device’s camera. You’ll be prompted to grant access when you tap the barcode button or scan a gift card. You can also adjust this manually in your device’s privacy settings:
    • iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > Shopify POS > Enable Camera.
    • Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Shopify POS > Permissions > Camera > Select Allow only while using the app.
  • Step 2. Open the Shopify POS app and go to the product section.
Open the Shopify POS app, and go to the product section.
  • Step 3.  Tap the magnifier icon.
Tap the magnifier icon.
  • Step 4. Tap the barcode icon to begin scanning.
Tap the barcode icon to begin scanning. 
  • Step 5. To get the best scanning results, hold the barcode 10 to 15 inches away from your device’s camera.

If you experience any issues, check that your device’s camera functions correctly and that the barcode is at the right distance. If scanning still doesn’t work, let me know the specific issue, and I’ll be happy to help.

FAQs

What should I do if the barcode doesn’t scan?

If a barcode isn’t scanning, check that your camera lens is clean and unobstructed. Ensure that the barcode is not too reflective, damaged, or obscured. Adjust the distance from the camera and try to reorient the barcode for better recognition.

Can I use Shopify POS without a camera?

Yes, if your device doesn’t have a camera, you can still manage your inventory by manually entering product information directly into the Shopify POS app.

Does the barcode need to be in a specific orientation?

Ideally, the barcode should be held flat and facing the camera directly. Ensure it is well-lit and not distorted. Some barcodes can be scanned at various angles, but direct alignment improves accuracy.

What types of barcodes can I scan with Shopify POS?

Shopify POS supports various standard barcode formats, including UPC (Universal Product Code), EAN (European Article Number), QR codes, and others. Ensure the barcode is readable and correctly formatted.

Will scanning barcodes update inventory automatically?

Yes, when you scan a barcode, the Shopify POS app retrieves the corresponding product information, which can automatically update inventory levels based on your settings and sales.

Bottom Line

By using your device’s camera and Shopify POS for barcode scanning, you can empower your staff to process transactions quickly and efficiently, leading to improved customer satisfaction and increased sales.

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Sam Nguyen is the CEO and founder of Avada Commerce, an e-commerce solution provider headquartered in Singapore. He is an expert on the Shopify e-commerce platform for online stores and retail point-of-sale systems. Sam loves talking about e-commerce and he aims to help over a million online businesses grow and thrive.