QR code activation, step by step

1. Open your phone camera (or a QR scanner) and point it at the code on the TV. A notification or link appears.
2. Tap the link. It opens the service's official activation page in your browser.
3. Sign in if you are not already signed in on your phone.
4. Confirm. The TV finishes sign-in automatically.

What the QR code actually contains

The QR code holds one web address: the service's activation page with your code already attached. That is why scanning skips the typing step but still asks you to sign in and confirm. The published standard behind code activation describes this "complete" link and still asks devices to show the typed code and address too, so you can always fall back to typing if scanning fails. More in device code sign-in, explained.

Staying safe while scanning

• Only scan a QR code shown on your own device's screen — never one sent by a stranger or printed on a flyer claiming to "activate" your account.
• Before you sign in, glance at the web address the link opened. It should be the service's official domain.
• Read the confirmation screen. A good activation page tells you what you are approving; if it describes a device you are not holding, stop.

If scanning does not work

• The page says the code expired: go back on the TV to generate a new QR code and scan it straight away.
• The link opens in an app you are not signed in to: sign in there, or copy the link into your browser instead.
• No QR code at all: type the code at the address on screen, or use the other options in how to activate without a code.

Activated on a TV that is not yours? Remember to log out afterwards; see how to sign out of all devices.