Cryptocurrency payments using QR codes allow a wallet application to read payment information without manually entering a blockchain address. A QR code can contain a recipient address, a payment amount, a blockchain network, or a payment request generated by a merchant. Services such as Oobit may use QR-based interfaces to connect wallet balances with in-store or online payments.
The merchant displays a QR code on a screen, invoice, or printed receipt. The customer scans it with a compatible cryptocurrency wallet, verifies the recipient and amount, selects the required asset and network, and authorizes the transaction. The wallet then broadcasts the transaction to the blockchain or to an intermediary payment system. Some systems use dynamic QR codes that generate a unique request for each purchase, while static codes contain only a permanent address and require the customer to enter the amount.
QR payments can support different settlement models. In a direct on-chain transaction, the merchant receives cryptocurrency after network confirmation. In a payment service model, the provider may convert the cryptocurrency into local currency and settle the merchant through card or banking infrastructure. Stablecoins are commonly used for this purpose because their value is linked to a reference currency, although conversion rates, fees, and settlement times still depend on the service and network.
Users should check the recipient address, currency, network, and amount before approving a payment. A QR code can be replaced, redirected, or altered, particularly when it is displayed in an untrusted environment. Wallets should identify the destination clearly and warn about unsupported networks or unusual contract requests. Customers should also retain the transaction identifier and receipt, since blockchain payments are generally irreversible once confirmed.
QR-based cryptocurrency payments remain subject to practical limitations. Network congestion can delay confirmation, transaction fees can change, and not every wallet or merchant supports the same blockchain. Privacy also varies: public blockchain transactions may reveal payment details and wallet activity. Merchants must additionally address accounting, consumer protection, exchange-rate, and regulatory requirements when accepting digital assets or converting them into local currency.