NEATPASS

Supported Barcode Types

A complete guide to all the barcode formats NeatPass can read and convert into Apple Wallet passes.

2 min read

NeatPass can scan any barcode that Apple's Vision framework recognizes. However, Apple Wallet only supports certain barcode types natively. For other formats, NeatPass converts them automatically.

Wallet-Native Barcodes

These barcodes display exactly as scanned in Apple Wallet.

QR Code

Most common type. Found on event tickets, boarding passes, loyalty cards.

PDF417

Stacked horizontal lines. Standard for airline boarding passes.

Aztec Code

Square with bullseye center. Used by European rail (DB, SNCF).

Code 128

High-density barcode. Common on shipping labels and some membership cards.

Other Supported Barcodes

NeatPass scans and renders these barcodes in their original format. When exporting to Apple Wallet, they're automatically converted to a wallet-compatible format. The encoded data stays exactly the same.

Data Matrix

Similar to QR. Converted for wallet compatibility.

Code 39

Older format. Converted for wallet compatibility.

EAN/UPC

Retail barcodes. Converted for wallet compatibility.

Choosing a Barcode Format

When NeatPass detects multiple possible barcode formats from your ticket, you can choose which one to use.

Open a pass, tap Edit, and scroll to the Barcode section. Tap the format picker to see available options.

Detected Badge

A blue "Detected" badge marks formats found in your original ticket.

Current Selection

A checkmark shows the currently selected format.

Conversion Warning

An orange icon indicates formats that will be converted for Apple Wallet.

The picker always shows wallet-compatible formats: QR Code, PDF417, Aztec, and DataMatrix.

When to Change Formats

Barcode won't scan from Apple Wallet - try the originally detected format
Wallet display issues - try a different wallet-compatible format
Multiple formats detected - choose the one matching your physical ticket
When in doubt, stick with the auto-selected format. NeatPass picks the best match.

About barcode conversion

Inside NeatPass, all barcodes display in their original format. When you add a pass to Apple Wallet, non-native barcodes are converted automatically - the encoded data stays exactly the same, only the visual format changes. Learn more about conversion.

For best results

Use the original PDF when possible, it has sharper barcodes than screenshots. Make sure the entire barcode is visible with some white space around it.

Not Working?

Check our troubleshooting guide if your barcode isn't being detected. If your barcode looks faded in Apple Wallet, see why barcodes look faded.

Related

Learn about different ways to import tickets or get started with creating your first pass.