If you've used Instagram for a while, you might remember Nametags, and wonder where they went or whether they're the same as today's QR codes. The short answer: Instagram evolved the feature into a standard QR code. Here's what changed, what it does now, and how to use it.
What Nametags Were
Nametag was Instagram's earlier branded version of a scannable profile code. It worked only within Instagram's own scanner and featured playful customization like colors, emoji, and selfie backgrounds. It did the core job, opening your profile when scanned, but stayed inside the app.
The Shift to Standard QR Codes
Instagram replaced Nametags with a standard QR code that any phone camera can read, not just Instagram's scanner. This made the codes far more useful in the real world, since people no longer needed the app open to scan them. The feature now lives in your profile menu as QR code.
Does Instagram Still Have a QR Code?
Yes. Every account has a profile QR code available in the menu. If your app still shows Nametag, updating to the latest version typically renames and upgrades it to the standard QR code, with broad camera compatibility.
Going Beyond the Built-In Code
The in-app code is convenient but basic. For branding, scan tracking, or the ability to change the destination, generate your own from your profile link with an Instagram QR generator, which gives you a downloadable, fully customizable code.
FAQ
Common questions are answered in the FAQ section below.