Code Scan vs EXCU
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
Code Scan
This app scans and generates a wide variety of 1D and 2D barcodes, including QR codes, DataMatrix, and specialized formats like VDS. It offers features like camera zoom, flash support, and a history of scanned codes. Users can also share scanned data and create new barcodes.
- Scans all 1D and 2D barcodes
- Supports MicroQR, VDS, and ICAO Datastructures
- Adjustable camera zoom and flash for low light
- Scan history and sharing functionality
- Generates QR, DataMatrix, and PDF417 barcodes
- Dark mode and dark AppIcon support
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Scan and create every common 1D and 2D barcode - one at a time or continuously in Batch Scan. Export your history as CSV or automatically send scans to your own server. Unlike an ordinary scanner, Code Scan also verifies the cryptographic seals on official documents. WHAT IT READS • QR, MicroQR and rMQR (rectangular MicroQR) • DataMatrix, including DMRE • Aztec, PDF417, MaxiCode • EAN-8, EAN-13, UPC-A, UPC-E • Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, Codabar, ITF / ITF-14 • GS1 DataBar and DataBar Expanded • VDS, VDS-NC and IDB document seals Codes are decoded on your device: from the live camera, from a photo in your library, or from an image you share into the app from somewhere else. DIGITAL SEALS ON OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS This is what sets Code Scan apart: it does not just read the seal, it checks the cryptographic signature. • VDS (Visible Digital Seal, BSI TR-03137) in DataMatrix • VDS-NC (ICAO) and IDB (ICAO Datastructure for Barcode) in QR codes • Signatures verified against X.509 certificates, kept up to date automatically • Import your own X.509 certificates for closed ecosystems • MRZ data contained in a seal is parsed and shown in readable form This app supports reading and verification of (among others) VDS Profiles: - Social Insurance Card - Residence Permit Document - ICAO Visa Document - ICAO Emergency Travel Document - German Arrival Attestation Document - Address Sticker for German Identity Card - Place of Residence Sticker for German Passports VDS-NC Profiles: - ICAO PoT and PoV (ISO/IEC JTC1 SC17 WG3/TF5) CREATE YOUR OWN CODES • QR, DataMatrix, Aztec, PDF417 and Code 128 • Live preview while you type • Choose the QR error correction level (L / M / Q / H) or the PDF417 level (0-8) • Keep your codes in a library, mark favorites, share any of them as an image FASTER IN EVERYDAY USE • Camera light in four brightness steps and 1x / 2x / 4x zoom - for tiny print, dark rooms and laminated documents • Share a screenshot from any app to read the code inside it, or share a link to turn it into a code • Batch Scan: capture multiple codes without a result screen and save them straight to your history • Siri and Shortcuts: create a code or open the scanner by voice, or build both actions into your own shortcuts • Recreate a scanned code in a single tap, with the content already filled in A HISTORY THAT STAYS ORGANIZED • Grouped into Starred, Today, This Week and Before • Scanning a code again updates the existing entry instead of piling up duplicates • Export and share your scan history as a CSV file • Stored seals are re-verified in the background against the current certificates, so an expired signature stops showing as valid FOR PROFESSIONAL USE • GS1 application identifiers parsed and labelled • Open recognized links immediately, skipping the result screen • Copy and share the raw code data instead of the interpreted content • Optionally send scans automatically to your own HTTPS endpoint (off by default) • Play a confirmation sound after successful transfers • Native iPad layouts PRIVACY Decoding happens entirely on your device, and your history stays there. There is no account and no tracking. To verify seals, the app downloads the public signer certificates from our certificate service. The optional face comparison against a document portrait is the one feature that sends an image to a KURZ Digital service, and only when you start it yourself. For wishes and suggestions just contact us at info@kurzdigital.com
EXCU
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Take control of your exhaust valves with the EXCU app by TubiStyle! EXCU is the smart controller that allows you to manage your vehicle’s exhaust valves directly from your smartphone via Bluetooth. Main Features: * OPEN – Keep the valve fully open for maximum sound * STOCK – Return to the factory valve behavior anytime * Custom Mode – Choose your preferred setting: keep the valve closed for a set time, or permanently, depending on your vehicle model Download the EXCU app and pair it with your EXCU Bluetooth module to unlock its full potential. Get your EXCU Exhaust Valve Control Kit from TubiStyle or authorized dealers worldwide. Features may vary depending on the car model and valve system App requires EXCU control unit with Bluetooth. Compatibility may vary depending on smartphone and OS version.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is iOS requirement: EXCU at 12.0 against Code Scan's 18.0. On price, ads, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
| Parameter | Code Scan | EXCU |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 4.6 (730 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 79.4% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 730 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Every 4 weeks | — |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Free | — |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad | iPhone, iPod |
| Requires iOS | 18.0 | 12.0 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 17 MB | 9 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | KURZ Digital Solutions GmbH & Co. KG | DUERRE TUBI STYLE GROUP SPA |
Bugs and requests
Code Scan
Reported bugs
2 issues- Does not load websites
- Copy or close options produce no result
Requested features
2 requests- Ability to view previously scanned QR codes (not just data)
- Option to contribute via donation instead of ads
EXCU
Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.
In-app purchases
Code Scan
No in-app purchases
EXCU
No in-app purchases
Questions
Is Code Scan free?
Is EXCU free?
Do Code Scan or EXCU have ads?
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