TL;DR
- If you print separate QR codes for iOS and Android, you lose conversions.
- The best setup is one QR code that routes users to the correct store.
- Use an editable link so you can change the destination later without reprinting.
- For attribution, use UTMs and one clear conversion event.
Why app download QR codes usually underperform
Most app QR campaigns fail for boring reasons:
- two QR codes (confusing choice)
- redirect chains and slow landing pages
- weak message match (poster says one thing, store page shows another)
- no measurement, so you cannot improve
The fix is a clean funnel.
The best structure: one QR code, smart routing
Your goal is:
scan → correct store page → install
A good routing page does three things:
- Detects iOS vs Android
- Sends people to the right store immediately
- Provides a fallback button if redirect fails
This avoids the "choose your platform" step which costs you installs.
Use an editable link (so you do not reprint)
App store URLs change.
Campaigns change.
Screenshots and messaging change.
If your QR is static, your poster becomes stale.
With an editable destination QR you can:
- swap store links later
- route to a new landing page for a new feature
- pause a campaign without trashing inventory
If you are deciding between static and dynamic, read:
Tracking: what to measure (without overcomplicating it)
If you do not measure, you cannot improve.
Step 1: use UTMs on the link behind the QR
Start with:
- utm_source=qr
- utm_medium=print (or event, poster, packaging)
- utm_campaign=
Guide:
Step 2: pick one conversion
Choose one:
- app install
- account created
- first purchase
Do not track everything at once. Start with one clear success metric.
Step 3: A/B test message match
Your poster headline matters more than your QR design.
If you want a simple test:
- Version A: benefit headline
- Version B: social proof headline
Then compare scans and installs.
Guide:
Print rules so it scans reliably
Install intent is fragile. If the scan fails, you lose.
Use this checklist:
- Dark QR on a light background
- Keep a proper quiet zone
- Do not warp the code on curved surfaces
- Avoid glossy reflections
- Test from the real distance (poster distance is not the same as table tent distance)
Helpful reads:
Common mistakes (and fixes)
Mistake 1: sending to a slow landing page
If your routing page takes 3 to 5 seconds on mobile data, you will lose installs.
Fix:
- keep it minimal
- no heavy scripts
- one primary button
More:
Mistake 2: not matching the promise
If your poster says "Get 10% off" but your app store page does not mention it, trust drops.
Fix:
- ensure the first screenshot or first line matches the offer
- keep the campaign consistent
Mistake 3: printing two QR codes
People do not want to choose.
Fix: one QR, smart routing.
Quick checklist
- Use one QR code.
- Route to the correct store.
- Add UTMs.
- Keep redirect chains short.
- Test on iOS and Android.
Try QRShuffle
QRShuffle is built for QR campaigns you want to iterate.
Generate an editable link QR and update the destination anytime.
- Create your first QR: https://qrshuffle.com/signup
- See pricing: https://qrshuffle.com/pricing