# QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan vs WA Direct Message

The clearest difference is ads: WA Direct Message at none against QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan's shown. WA Direct Message also leads on monetization model (free vs free with in-app purchases). QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan's advantage is update cadence (every 3 weeks vs every 6 weeks) and iOS requirement (15.0 vs 17.6). On price, review sentiment, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan sells 4 in-app purchases, starting at $4.49 per month and WA Direct Message sells 3 in-app purchases, starting at $0.99 per 7 days. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan ships an update every 3 weeks, WA Direct Message every 6 weeks. The most recent releases landed on September 22, 2026 and September 5, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan | WA Direct Message |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | **[4.8 (71 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/qr-code-reader-and-barcode-scan/id1521174180/reviews)** | — |
| Number of ratings | **71** | — |
| Positive reviews | 100.0% of reviews | 100.0% of reviews |
| In-app purchases | Yes | Yes |
| Ads | Yes | **No** |
| Update frequency | **Every 3 weeks** | Every 6 weeks |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | **Free** |
| Size | 15 MB | 33 MB |
| Requires iOS | **15.0** | 17.6 |
| Devices | **iPhone, iPad, iPod** | iPhone, iPad |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Mert Vardar](https://appshunter.io/developer/1456260549) | [Varun Kumar](https://appshunter.io/developer/1507655482) |

## What reviewers say

### QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/qr-code-reader-and-barcode-scan/id1521174180)

Easily scan QR codes and barcodes by simply pointing your device's camera. This utility offers instant results, a helpful flashlight for low-light conditions, and keeps a history of your scans. No internet connection is needed for this fast and effective tool.

**Highlights:** Instant QR and barcode scanning, Flashlight for low-light, Scan history, No internet required, Minimalist material design, Simple to use

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases (4)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| QR Code Reader & Barcode + | $4.49 | per month |
| QR Code Reader & Barcode + | $4.99 | per month |
| QR Code Scanner Maker + | $39.99 | per year |
| QR Code Scanner Maker + | $39.99 | per year |


### WA Direct Message

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/wa-direct-message-chat/id1557291502)

Send WhatsApp messages without saving contacts, share your location instantly, and schedule messages in advance. Keep your phonebook clean and organized with this simple, lightweight tool. Perfect for quick chats, business, or deliveries.

**Highlights:** Send WhatsApp messages without saving contacts, Share current location instantly, Schedule messages in advance, Save and send quick replies, Multi-language support, Privacy-focused: no login or contact saving

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases (3)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| WA Direct Message Pro Weekly | $0.99 | per 7 days |
| WA Direct Message Pro Monthly | $4.99 | per month |
| WA Direct Message Pro Annual | $39.99 | per year |


## Frequently asked questions

### Is QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan free?

QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Is WA Direct Message free?

WA Direct Message is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Do QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan or WA Direct Message have ads?

QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan shows ads; WA Direct Message does not.

### Which is updated more often, QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan or WA Direct Message?

QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan ships an update every 3 weeks, and WA Direct Message every 6 weeks. Most recently, QR Code Reader & Barcode Scan was updated on September 22, 2026 and WA Direct Message on September 5, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*