While Petcube does outperform other pet cameras like Furbo, users often complain about the initial setup. Problems like Petcube not pairing up with the mobile device are not that rare, and customers often mention that the Petcube QR code won’t scan. The QR code scanning method is no doubt the easiest way to connect your Petcube with the mobile application, but it can be pretty annoying when you can’t scan the code.
The following list of troubleshooting methods should help you address this situation with the Petcube QR code not scanning. So, if you’re stuck in the same problem with Petcube, try going through these fixes.
Why Won’t Petcube QR Code Scan?
- Clean Camera Lens
Most of the time, you’re just dealing with a dirty camera or issues with the protective film on the lens. There is no need to get concerned, and simply cleaning the lens should be enough to get ahead of this complication. Make sure to remove the protective film on the camera if you’ve just bought the unit. There is no point in leaving the film on the lens as it can create problems with the pairing process.
After removing the protective film from the lens, make use of a microfiber cloth and any gentle cleaner from the market to wipe away the debris from the lens. You shouldn’t put excessive pressure on the lens, and gentle cleaning should be enough.
- Adjust Angle Of Both Devices
The angle of the camera relative to the QR code can also create complications with the pairing process. So, if you’re sure that the lens is clean, just fix the angle so that both devices are pointing perfectly towards each other. The camera lens shouldn’t be bent at any angle, and it should have the whole QR code in its FOV. You can try out different variations to address interferences from other light sources.
- Decrease Distance Between Devices
The distance between the Petcube unit and the QR code shouldn’t be more than five inches. If the distance is more than five inches, the camera won’t be able to recognize the code, and you’ll be stuck in the setup process.
So, to address this complication, you should decrease the distance between both devices and then try scanning the QR code one more time. That way, you won’t have to worry about further complications.
- Try With A Different Mobile Device
The protector or the display of your mobile device can also impact the setup process. You won’t be able to connect these devices until the QR code is perfectly visible to the camera lens. Even small scratches on display can refract light and cause these complications. So, if your mobile display is in rough condition, try either removing the protector or using a different mobile device.
The issue should be fixed after changing the mobile device as long as the display is clear. So, after fixing the camera lens, you should also check the condition of the mobile display and take further actions to address this issue.
- Turn Off Extra Lights
The presence of too many light sources is never good when you’re trying to scan codes through the camera lens. The reflection of light from other sources will create interferences with the setup, and you’ll be better off turning off all other light sources.
Once all other light sources are turned off, you can try scanning the QR code again and then check the response from the smart camera. It should connect to the Petcube mobile application, and you can turn the lights back on after the camera has paired up with the mobile application.
- Reinstall Application
Lastly, bugs with the Petcube application will also lead to the same situation, where the mobile won’t pair up with the camera. So, there is no harm in reinstalling the application to narrow down possible issues with the application. Make sure that you’re on the latest version of the Petcube application, and then try going through the scanning procedure one more time.
However, if you’re still stuck in the same problem, then the only possibility left is that you’re in possession of a defective Petcube unit. There isn’t much that you can do yourself to fix a broken lens, and getting a replacement is your only move.