Friday, September 13, 2013

QR Codes, What Are They?

Ever see those pixellated squares randomly littered in odd places as you walk through your city? In actuality, those pixellated squares are a type of barcode originating from Japan, QR being an acronymn for Quick Response. These 2D barcodes can contain URLs, tracking or contact information.

In order to put a URL into a QR code, the URL must first be made into a shortened URL which can be done through http://goo.gl/ which is a URL shortener provided by Google. Then take that shortened and paste it into http://qrcode.kaywa.com/ which will embed that URL into a unique QR code.

The utility of QR codes come several utilities. First, from its ability to be scanned by smart phones with QR code scanning software used through it's camera (most smartphones phones, if not all, are QR code software compatible) so long as that phone has wireless internet or 3G or 4G internet. QR codes also have the ability in them to be customizable into images to better represent a business or brand.

QR codes are widely used in Japan and their use is rising in Europe. However, the level of QR code use is not large as the barcode.


https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B9EFnnfOcvqFUkFVeU9NTEVrM2M/edit

https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B9EFnnfOcvqFYlZKdV9KOFBpQWs/edit

2 comments:

  1. Hello, I like your summary about QR codes. It was short and concise. I never knew QR codes would be important when promoting a brand. What makes them unique is the visual customization. Maybe you can expand more about QR codes and your experiences in your future post. Overall, it was a great post and I feel motivated to redo my QR code. I can’t wait to see your future blog posts and good luck!

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  2. If I were in a rush and needed to know exactly what QR codes and why need them, I'd come to this post. Your quick and precise summation of QR codes is clear and concise. It provides a quick history along with current applications of this technology. There were no noticeable spelling or grammar errors to mention. All I would like to see in this post your opinion on QR codes. Aside from that, great post.

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