Frequently asked questions
Is Panther Barcode Reader free?
Yes. The Android app is free to download and use (ad-supported). Panther Barcode Reader for Windows is also free to use, with no time limit and no ads - the one difference on the free Windows version is that History shows your 100 most recent scans. A built-in 14-day trial and the one-time Windows Personal licence remove that limit. Online purchasing of the Personal licence is being prepared - see the Pricing page.
Can Android and Windows share scan results?
Yes. Once two devices are paired, compatible devices can share scan results through the same local network or by Bluetooth, in either direction.
Do I need an account?
No. Local device-to-device sharing does not require a cloud account.
Does it work without internet?
Scanning itself works without an internet connection. Device sharing works over your local Wi-Fi network or Bluetooth. Some actions still use the internet - for example, opening a scanned web link, or downloading an app update.
Can I connect using Bluetooth?
Yes, where supported by your devices and operating systems. Bluetooth is useful when your phone and PC aren't on the same local network.
Can I connect over Wi-Fi?
Yes. When your Android phone and Windows PC are connected to the same local network, Panther Barcode Reader can establish a direct local connection between them.
Can I generate QR codes?
Yes. You can generate QR codes for URLs, text, Wi-Fi networks, contacts, email, phone numbers, SMS messages, locations, and calendar events.
Which barcode formats are supported?
QR Code, EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, UPC-E, Code 128, Code 39, ITF, Codabar, Data Matrix, PDF417, and Aztec. Support may vary by platform and scanner hardware.
Is my scan history stored online?
No. Your scan history is stored locally on your device. It is shared with another device only after you pair the two and choose to share or sync.
Is the Windows version subscription based?
No. The Windows Personal licence is a one-time purchase for a perpetual licence - pay once, keep it, no recurring subscription. It can be activated on up to 2 personal Windows devices.
Are advertisements shown on Windows?
No. Panther Barcode Reader for Windows - free or Personal - is never ad-supported. The free Android app is supported by advertising through Google AdMob.
What do I get with the Windows free trial?
The 14-day trial (started from the app's Settings screen) removes the free version's 100-most-recent-scans history limit, so you can evaluate unlimited scan history before buying. When the trial ends the app keeps working as the free version - nothing is deleted.
What happens to my scan history if I don't buy a licence?
Nothing is lost. On the free Windows version every scan stays in the app's local database on your PC - History just shows the 100 most recent. Your full history reappears immediately if you start a trial or activate a Personal licence.
How do I get support?
Email info@panthersoft.net, or visit the Contact page for common topics like installation, connectivity, and troubleshooting.
Still have a question? Contact us.