Scannable discount codes

Shopify Adds QR Code Generation for Discount Codes

Shopify POS version 11.5 introduces the ability for merchants to generate scannable QR codes for any discount code through the Shopify Admin. Both POS staff and online store customers can scan these codes to apply discounts at checkout.

What This Means for Discount App Developers

Apps that create discount codes require no immediate changes with this release. The QR code functionality works with existing discount codes created through the Shopify API. Shopify generates QR codes using the standard discount URL format: https://{shop}.myshopify.com/discount/{CODE}.

This URL structure has been Shopify’s standard approach for applying discount codes programmatically. The update adds a native QR code generation layer on top of this existing system.

Technical Implications

Developers building discount functionality should note that merchants now expect QR code capabilities as a standard feature. While Shopify handles QR code generation in the Admin, apps that display or manage discount codes may want to consider adding QR code generation in their own interfaces for consistency.

The discount URL format remains unchanged, meaning existing integrations that construct discount links will continue to function as before. Apps that create discount codes through the Admin API or Functions API automatically gain QR code compatibility without additional development work.

This update primarily affects the merchant experience rather than the developer API surface. Apps focused on discount management, loyalty programs, or promotional campaigns can leverage this feature by directing merchants to Shopify’s native QR code generation tools.

Read the full announcement →