Question 1

Does the SMS QR send the message automatically?

Accepted Answer

No. It opens the SMS app with the number and (optionally) the message pre-filled. The user still has to tap send. This is enforced by the OS so QR codes can't silently send paid SMS.

Question 2

Should I include the country code?

Accepted Answer

Yes — always use international format with the leading + (for example +1 555 123 4567). National-format numbers may not work reliably across phones from other countries or roaming SIMs.

Question 3

Why isn't the message body pre-filled on iPhone?

Accepted Answer

Older iOS versions used a different SMS URL format (sms:&body= rather than sms:?body=). This generator uses the modern ?body= form, which works on iOS 8 and later and on all current Android. If you need to support very old iPhones, omit the body.

Question 4

Can I send to a short code like 90210?

Accepted Answer

Yes — short codes are entered without a country code. They work in the country where the short code is registered. For international short codes, contact the carrier provisioning the code.

SMS QR Code Generator

A note on phone formats

Other QR types