Customizing QR codes

The HoopAI platform’s QR code builder includes a full visual customization panel. After entering the content details for any QR code type, you can style the code to match your brand identity before downloading or saving. Customization is live-previewed in the builder — every change you make updates the code preview in real time.

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Accessing the customization panel

Customization is the third step of the QR code creation flow. After you select a type and enter content details, the builder moves automatically to the design step. You can also edit the design of any existing code by opening it from the library (three-dot menu > Edit) and navigating to the design step.

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Color options

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Dot color (foreground)

The dots that form the QR code pattern are black by default. You can change them to any color using the color picker or by entering a hex code directly. Use your brand’s primary color to create a QR code that feels intentional rather than generic. Important: Maintain high contrast between dot color and background color. Dark dots on a light background scan reliably. Light dots on a dark background can work but require testing across different scanner apps. Avoid low-contrast combinations like medium gray on white or navy on dark blue.

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Background color

The background defaults to white. You can change it to any solid color. A colored background combined with matching dot colors creates a branded, cohesive appearance. If you set the background opacity to 0% (transparent) when downloading as PNG, the code will have a transparent background that blends into any surface it is placed on in design software.

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Marker border and center colors

The three square markers in the corners of the QR code (called finder patterns or marker squares) have two distinct areas:

• Marker border — the outer square frame of each corner marker
• Marker center — the smaller inner square inside each corner marker

Both can be set to different colors from the main dot color, giving you fine-grained control over the visual hierarchy of the code.

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Dot styles

The pattern of the QR code is made up of individual dots. The platform offers several dot styles: Classic square dots offer the widest compatibility with all QR scanner apps. Rounded and circular styles work well with most modern smartphones but should always be tested before printing at scale.

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Marker border and center styles

The corner markers can be styled independently from the body dots:

• Square — standard right-angle corners
• Rounded — softened corners that match rounded dot styles
• Extra rounded — maximum corner rounding on the marker frames
• Dot — the center marker becomes a single dot

Matching the marker style to the dot style creates a cohesive appearance. Contrasting them intentionally (for example, square markers with circular dots) can also work well for certain brand aesthetics.

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Logo in the center

Adding your logo to the center of the QR code reinforces brand recognition and makes the code immediately identifiable as belonging to your business. QR codes include built-in error correction that allows them to scan correctly even when a portion of the pattern is covered. A logo covering up to 30% of the central area typically does not affect scannability, but always test after adding a logo.

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Background image

In addition to a solid background color, you can upload a background image that appears behind the QR pattern. Background images add visual richness but require careful opacity adjustment. If the background is too prominent, it competes with the QR pattern and reduces scan reliability.

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Frame and call-to-action text

Some QR code designs include a frame around the code with a text label — for example, “Scan to visit us” or “Scan to connect.” A frame creates a defined boundary for the code and communicates to viewers what to expect when they scan. The builder allows you to select from available frame styles and add short call-to-action text below or above the QR code image.

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Previewing and testing

The builder displays a live preview of the styled QR code as you make changes. Before finalizing:

1. Check that the preview looks correct at normal viewing size
2. Use your phone’s camera to scan the preview directly on screen
3. Confirm the correct destination opens
4. Check that the scan is fast — if the scanner struggles, reduce design complexity or increase contrast

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Downloading after customization

After customizing, download the code in the format that matches your intended use: See Print-ready QR codes for sizing guidelines and print production recommendations.