Generate a QR Code for Geographic Location
Create a QR code that opens a map application at specific GPS coordinates. Covers the geo: URI scheme, Google Maps and Apple Maps URL formats, coordinate precision, and location sharing best practices.
Detailed Explanation
QR Codes for Geographic Locations
Location QR codes encode GPS coordinates or map links that open a map application when scanned. This is useful for sharing precise locations without relying on addresses.
The geo URI Scheme
The standard way to encode a location is the geo: URI:
geo:37.7749,-122.4194
This encodes the latitude and longitude for San Francisco. The geo: scheme is defined in RFC 5870 and is supported by most mobile devices.
Optional Parameters
geo:37.7749,-122.4194?z=15
The z parameter sets the zoom level (typically 1-21, where 21 is the closest).
Google Maps URL
For broader compatibility, use a Google Maps URL:
https://maps.google.com/maps?q=37.7749,-122.4194
With a label:
https://maps.google.com/maps?q=37.7749,-122.4194&label=Office
Apple Maps URL
For iOS-optimized links:
https://maps.apple.com/?ll=37.7749,-122.4194&q=Office
Coordinate Precision
The number of decimal places determines location accuracy:
| Decimal Places | Accuracy |
|---|---|
| 1 (37.8) | ~11 km |
| 2 (37.77) | ~1.1 km |
| 3 (37.775) | ~110 m |
| 4 (37.7749) | ~11 m |
| 5 (37.77490) | ~1.1 m |
| 6 (37.774900) | ~11 cm |
For most purposes, 5 decimal places provide sufficient accuracy for building-level precision.
Platform Behavior
- Android —
geo:opens Google Maps. HTTPS Google Maps URLs also work. - iOS —
geo:is not natively supported by all apps. Apple Maps URLs (maps.apple.com) work best. Google Maps URLs open in Safari, which may redirect to Google Maps if installed. - Universal approach — Use a Google Maps HTTPS URL for maximum cross-platform compatibility.
Encoding Addresses vs Coordinates
You can also encode a search query instead of coordinates:
https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Tokyo+Tower,+Japan
However, coordinates are more precise and do not depend on geocoding accuracy. Use coordinates for exact locations and address queries for well-known landmarks.
Best Practices
- Always verify coordinates before generating the QR code
- Use positive values for North latitude and East longitude
- Include a human-readable address alongside the QR code for fallback
- Test on both iOS and Android to ensure the correct map app opens
Use Case
Location QR codes are used on event invitations to show venue location, tourist information boards, real estate listing signs, trailhead markers for hiking routes, geocaching, delivery instructions, store location cards, and any printed material where directing someone to a precise geographic point is needed.