Wyze Camera Won’t Scan QR Code? 7 Fixes to Try Now!

Setting up a Wyze camera should be quick and easy, but what happens when you get stuck at the QR code scanning step? I’ve been there, staring at my screen, moving my phone back and forth like I’m performing some kind of tech ritual—only for nothing to happen. Frustrating, right? If your Wyze camera won’t scan the QR code, don’t worry. I’ll walk you through everything you need to fix it, from simple tweaks to advanced troubleshooting.

Quick Fixes You Should Try First

Now, let’s dive into the details and get your Wyze camera up and running!

Why Your Wyze Camera Won’t Scan the QR Code

There are several reasons why your Wyze camera might be struggling to scan the QR code. Some are simple—like a dirty lens—while others might take a bit more troubleshooting. Let’s break it down.

1. Screen Glare or Poor Lighting

Your phone’s screen needs to be clear and well-lit for the Wyze camera to read the QR code. If there’s too much glare or the room is too dark, the camera won’t recognize it.

2. Incorrect Distance Between Phone and Camera

Sometimes, the camera struggles to focus. If you’re too close, the QR code may look blurry. If you’re too far, it may be too small to scan. A good rule of thumb is to start at about 5-7 inches away and adjust slowly.

3. Dirty Camera Lens or Phone Screen

Dust, smudges, or even a tiny scratch on your Wyze camera lens or phone screen can distort the QR code. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth might be all you need.

4. QR Code Has Expired

QR codes generated during setup only last for about 5 minutes. If your camera doesn’t scan it in time, it expires. You’ll need to generate a new one by restarting the setup process in the Wyze app.

5. Inverted Colors on iPhone (Smart Invert Issue)

If you’re using an iPhone with Smart Invert or Classic Invert turned on, the QR code’s colors might be reversed, making it unreadable. Turn this feature off in your settings.

How to Fix Wyze Camera QR Code Scanning Issues

1. Adjust the Distance and Angle

Hold your phone steady and parallel to the Wyze camera. Don’t tilt it too much. Start from 5-7 inches away and adjust slowly until the camera picks up the QR code.

2. Improve Lighting Conditions

If there’s glare, try tilting your phone slightly or adjusting the brightness. If it’s too dark, move to a well-lit area or increase your screen brightness.

3. Clean the Camera Lens and Phone Screen

Use a soft, lint-free cloth (or a glasses-cleaning wipe) to clean both your Wyze camera lens and phone screen. Even the tiniest smudge can cause issues.

4. Rotate the QR Code (Yes, Upside Down!)

Wyze cameras are sometimes weirdly better at scanning upside-down QR codes. Flip your phone around and see if that does the trick.

5. Regenerate the QR Code

If the QR code has expired, restart the setup process in the Wyze app to generate a fresh one.

6. Disable Screen Inversion on iPhones

If you have an iPhone, check if Smart Invert or Classic Invert is on. If so, turn it off:
Go to Settings → Accessibility → Display & Text Size → Smart Invert Colors and switch it off.

7. Try a Different Device

If the QR code still won’t scan, try generating it on a different device—like a tablet or another phone. A bigger screen can sometimes help.

8. Factory Reset Your Wyze Camera

If all else fails, try a factory reset:

  • Wyze Cam v1: Hold the setup button for 20 seconds until the yellow light flashes.
  • Wyze Cam v2, v3, or Pan Cam: Hold the setup button for 10 seconds until the red/blue light flashes.

Common Wyze Camera QR Code Scanning Issues & Solutions

IssueSolution
Screen glare or poor lightingAdjust screen brightness and avoid direct light
Incorrect distanceMove phone 5-7 inches away and adjust
Dirty camera lensClean lens and screen with a microfiber cloth
QR code expiredGenerate a new QR code in the Wyze app
Smart Invert on iPhoneTurn off Smart Invert in Accessibility settings
Cracked screen on phoneTry another device to generate the QR code

Wyze Camera QR Code Not Scanning? Here’s a Quick Fix Table

Quick FixHow to Do It
Adjust DistanceStart at 5-7 inches away and move slowly
Improve LightingIncrease brightness, remove glare
Clean LensUse a microfiber cloth
Flip QR CodeTry scanning it upside down
Generate New CodeRestart setup in Wyze app
Use Another DeviceTry a tablet or another phone

Final Thoughts

If your Wyze camera won’t scan the QR code, don’t stress. I’ve been there, and I know how frustrating it can be. But in most cases, the fix is something simple—like adjusting the distance, cleaning the lens, or flipping the QR code.

Try these steps, and you’ll have your Wyze camera up and running in no time. If nothing works, Wyze support is always there to help. You got this!

FAQs

Why is my Wyze camera not scanning the QR code?
Your Wyze camera may have trouble scanning the QR code due to poor lighting, incorrect distance, a dirty lens, or an expired QR code.

How do I reset my Wyze camera if it won’t scan the QR code?
Hold the setup button for 10-20 seconds, depending on your Wyze model, until the status light flashes.

Can I scan the Wyze QR code on another device?
Yes! If your phone’s screen is cracked or too small, try generating the QR code on a tablet or another phone.

How far should my phone be from the Wyze camera to scan the QR code?
Start at 5-7 inches away and adjust as needed until the camera focuses.

Does screen brightness affect QR code scanning?
Yes! A dim screen or too much glare can interfere with scanning. Increase brightness and avoid reflections.

What should I do if the QR code disappears before I scan it?
QR codes expire after 5 minutes, so restart the Wyze setup process in the app to generate a new one.

Can flipping the QR code help?
Surprisingly, yes! Some users find that scanning the QR code upside down works better.

What if my Wyze camera is still not scanning the QR code?
If none of the fixes work, factory reset your camera and try again. If the issue persists, contact Wyze support for further assistance.

Fix your Wyze camera QR code scanning issue fast! Follow these simple steps to troubleshoot and get your camera set up smoothly. Try them now!