Sending a link to a phone often means typing an email or using a separate app. A QR code extension generates a code for the current tab instantly, so scanning it with a phone camera opens the same page, which is faster for sharing links, Wi-Fi details or short pieces of text.
Generating a QR code for the current page
Most QR code generator extensions add a toolbar button that creates a code for whatever page you are viewing as soon as you click it. Some let you edit the underlying text or link before generating, so you can create a code for a different URL without opening a new tab.
Reading QR codes from a page as an extension
A QR code reader extension for Chrome scans images already on a webpage and decodes any QR code it finds, without needing your phone's camera. This helps when a QR code appears in a document, screenshot or product image and you want to open its link directly on your computer.
Downloading and customizing generated QR codes
Beyond a basic black-and-white square, useful extensions let you download the code as an image file, copy it directly, or adjust its size before saving. A few also support adding a logo or changing colors, which matters if you plan to print or share the code publicly.