The Quick Response (QR) code is a matrix barcode. This matrix barcode is a two-dimensional code that can be read by QR barcode readers and even camera mobile phones. Unlike a normal barcode which has a series of lines, a QR code is made up of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. However, the function remains the same: store information.
Originally this code was used only to track parts in vehicle production. These days it’s used for other things, like storing contact information, URLs, or texts. The encoded information can be interpreted by a camera phone that is equipped with dedicated software or application. When a phone camera scans and interprets a QR code containing a URL of a web page, the page automatically opens in your phone’s browser. This process is called hard linking or object hyperlinking.
In recent years, the code has been commonly used as a marketing tool. It is not uncommon to see it on a billboard or in a magazine. Target customers can scan the code using their phone and instantly receive information about the advertised product. In Japan, the QR code is used for almost everything, such as buying an app for your smartphone, subscribing to your favorite celebrity’s blog, or buying the latest digital music release.
Mobile phones that are equipped with a dedicated scanner camera are almost widely sold in countries such as Japan, South Korea, and the Netherlands. However, most Blackberry and Android or Symbian devices sold worldwide are also equipped with scanning software. If you’re a Blackberry user, you don’t have to ask for another user’s PIN number to add them to your Blackberry Messenger. You can simply scan the QR code of the other device and that person will be added to your contact list.
How to generate a QR code?
Now it is very easy to generate QR code. There are many websites or apps that allow you to create your own code. You don’t have to worry about paying a certain amount of fee because most of these sites are free. You just have to visit one of these websites, enter the type of information (data or text) you want to store in the code. You are usually asked to fill in your personal details, such as your name, company or employer, phone number, email, or other similar information. The website will then generate a code that contains your personal information as you have entered it above. You can then print the image and distribute it however you like.
