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Why does the QR code scan fail when adding my Roku Smart Home camera or doorbell?

When setting up your Roku® Smart Home camera or video doorbell, the Roku Smart Home app will create a QR code on your phone or tablet screen. You must scan this code with your Roku camera or doorbell to finish setup.

When the scan works, you’ll hear:

“QR code scanned… please wait.”

If you don’t hear this, follow the steps below.

Before you begin


  • The QR code only works for 5 minutes. If time runs out, create a new one in the Smart Home app
  • Hold your camera or doorbell about 5 inches from the code for at least 5 seconds
  • Make sure you’re scanning the code on your phone or tablet screen (not the QR code on the box or quick start guide)

Check your devices


Camera or doorbell

  • Remove any protective film from the lens
  • Wipe away smudges or dust with a soft cloth
  • If outdoors, avoid direct sunlight. Try shading the camera or moving to a darker area
  • If your camera is a single-leg model, go back in the app and select the correct camera

Phone or tablet

  • Make sure nothing blocks the QR code, like your finger or a notification icon
  • Clean the screen of fingerprints or dirt.
  • Try removing your screen protector temporarily if you have one
  • If the screen is cracked, use another device. You can also print the QR code on paper and scan it.
  • On Apple devices, turn off Smart Invert or Classic Invert
  • Adjust brightness:
    • Too bright outside? Lower the screen brightness
    • Too dark? Raise the brightness to maximum

Adjust the scan


If the above steps don't help, try:

  • Slowly moving the camera closer and farther (5–12 inches) until it scans
  • Holding the QR code upside down and refocusing
  • Slightly changing the angle to reduce glare
  • Scanning in a room with different lighting

Check your Wi-Fi


  • Most Roku cameras and doorbells only work with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, not 5GHz
  • On your phone or tablet, go to Settings > Wi-Fi and confirm you’re connected to the 2.4GHz network
  • You can try troubleshooting your Wi-Fi connection 

Restart or reset


  • Power cycle the camera: Unplug it, wait a few seconds, then plug it back in
  • Factory reset the camera: Hold the setup button on the back until the light blinks, then restart setup process in the app

FAQ


My phone screen is too small. What should I do?

Use a larger phone/tablet, or take a screenshot of the QR code and open it on a computer screen to scan.

Does every Roku camera use QR codes for setup?

No. Some models (like SCS11R, SCS12R/RW, SCW11R, SCB11R/RW) use a different setup. In the app, choose the 1-legged model option if you have one of these.

Last step


If you’ve tried everything and the QR code still will not scan contact Roku support. If under warranty, you may be eligible for a replacement.

 

Last updated at 2/13/2026 4:52:25 AM


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