to be honest Brandon I have never encountered that problem here, but I think your logic is what I would assume also. This is Thailand, so we might both be wrong!
that's true, there are few if any in Khao Takiab also.
The other problem I have had is that if the machine is in direct sunlight, the phone app will not read the QR code, but I just go find another machine if that happens.
I scan sometimes, but I find it a hassle and small places sometimes don't take it, so I still use cash. I try to use my Starling bank card to pau for things as much as possible because that's the cheapest option for me.