How to Create a QR Code for App Downloads (iOS & Android)

Getting users to download your app should be as simple as possible . Yet, many businesses still rely on long app store links or ask customers to search manually. This creates friction and often results in drop-offs.

A QR code for app downloads solves this by sending users directly to your app in the App Store or Google Play with a quick scan. Using dynamic QR codes, you can enable smart redirection based on the device. This guide covers what app download QR codes are, their benefits, creation steps, and tracking methods.

What is a QR code for app downloads?

A QR code for app downloads is a scannable code that takes users directly to your app’s download page. Instead of searching for your app by name, they scan and are instantly directed to the correct store.

Here’s how it works –

• A user scans the QR code with their smartphone
• The code recognizes the device type
• The user is redirected to the relevant app store

With static QR codes, you can only link to a single app store. That means if you point to the App Store, Android users are left out, and vice versa.

With dynamic QR codes, you can set up smart redirection. iOS users are sent to Apple’s App Store, while Android users are automatically taken to Google Play. This flexibility makes them the preferred choice for cross-platform campaigns. See more in our breakdown of dynamic vs static QR codes.

Why use QR codes for app downloads?

QR codes are a direct, user-friendly way to drive downloads. Here’s why they work so well:

• Bridge physical and digital: Add QR codes to posters, flyers, packaging, or even QR codes for apps at events. A scan connects offline materials to digital downloads
• Simplify access: Customers don’t need to manually search for your app in crowded stores. One scan takes them to the right page instantly
• Device-based redirection: With QR code redirect capabilities, you can ensure iOS users land in the App Store and Android users go to Google Play
• Track installs: Dynamic codes allow you to monitor scan data such as time, location, and device type, helping you understand how users are engaging with your campaigns
• Marketing boost: These are perfect for out-of-home ads, trade shows, or digital campaigns where you need a simple way for users to install your app

Step-by-step: How to create a QR code for app downloads

Follow these steps to set up your first app download QR code –

Step 1: Get the direct download URLs for your app from both the App Store and Google Play.

Step 2: Open a dynamic QR code generator like Mobiqode that supports app download campaigns.

Step 3: Enter both store links and enable device-based redirection so users are automatically routed to the right store.

Step 4: Customize the code with your brand colors, add a QR code with logo, and select a frame design to make it recognizable. See our examples of branded QR codes for ideas.

Step 5: Download the code in high-quality formats like PNG for digital use or SVG/EPS for print.

Step 6: Test the QR code on both iOS and Android devices to make sure the redirection works correctly.

Once complete, you’re ready to share your code across marketing channels.

Use cases for app download QR codes

Retail & eCommerce

Place QR codes on product packaging so customers can instantly download your shopping or loyalty app, boosting repeat purchases and engagement.

Events

Print codes on tickets, badges, or flyers so attendees can download companion apps for schedules, maps, or networking. QR codes for events are highly effective for driving participation.

Restaurants

Add codes to menus that link directly to your ordering or loyalty app, making it easier for customers to place orders and collect rewards.

Startups

Include app download codes on investor decks or business cards. Pairing with image QR codes or video QR codes showcases your product in a professional way.

Gyms & fitness centers

Add QR codes to posters or equipment signage that let members quickly download your fitness tracking or workout app.

Travel & hospitality

Hotels and airlines can use QR codes on room keys or boarding passes (respectively) to direct travelers to booking, check-in, or customer service apps.

Education & eLearning

Schools and training institutes can place QR codes on brochures or course material, helping students instantly access your learning app.

Tracking app download campaigns

One of the biggest advantages of using dynamic QR codes is the ability to measure campaign performance. Here’s how –

• Scan data: See when, where, and on what device your QR codes are scanned. This helps you understand regional adoption or peak engagement times
• UTM parameters: Add tracking codes to your app store URLs so you can measure installs in analytics tools. For example, you can compare installs from a trade show flyer vs. a social media ad
• Attribution: Dynamic QR codes ensure every offline scan can be attributed back to a specific campaign. This data lets you refine campaigns, invest in the right channels, and maximize installs

Simplifying downloading apps with Mobiqode 

QR codes make app downloads seamless, removing the friction of long URLs and manual searches. By choosing dynamic QR codes with device-based redirection, you can drive installs across both iOS and Android with a single scan.

For small businesses, startups, and event organizers, this is one of the most cost-effective ways to grow app adoption. So, start creating your own QR codes for apps today with our dynamic QR code generator. Add your branding, enable redirects, and track installs — all from one platform.