While most people have heard of QR codes, not everyone has used one yet. A QR code (abbreviated from Quick Response Code) is a matrix barcode that contains information about the item to which it is attached. When scanned with the correct application, this code leads the user to additional information or websites related to the product in question. The QR code was developed in Japan and was intended to be used as an efficient way to deliver location-specific data quickly to mobile phones.
What is a QR Code?
A QR Code is made up of rows and columns of small black squares that represent the dark parts of the image, as well as some transparent squares that can be used for special formatting like an encoded text message or website URL. A single QR Code symbol can store data in its square modules; to decode it, use this free app. There’s no need for Internet access—the reader is able to work offline and make sense of the visual patterns it finds in any available light level and from almost any angle. And that means you don’t have to squint at tiny screens anymore while you wait for a webpage to load.
Why should I use it?
It is important for the modern person to always be digitally literate, and the ubiquity of QR codes is why. By taking just a few minutes to learn about them and what they can do, you will have access to new information and new experiences just by scanning a QR code with your camera-equipped Android device! You can also create your own QR codes that link directly back to any website you want! This capability has led some people call them the Swiss army knife of the 21st century.
Where can I find them?
QR Codes may not be seen as often as they were in the 1990s, but that doesn’t mean they’re dead. As with anything that is somewhat of a mystery to people, its usage will vary depending on who you talk to – but if someone has one and wants you to download an app, use their WiFi hotspot, or take advantage of some other service, scanning their code is likely the quickest way for them to give you access without having to type in any long strings of text or email addresses with even longer strings of numbers. These are also great if you have received an attachment from someone with no idea what it is – just point your camera at the code and find out!
Scanning a barcode with my mobile device
I know what you’re thinking, Why would I need to scan barcodes with my mobile device? Is it just for fun? It isn’t quite as exciting as it sounds. Scanning a barcode can be used for more than just playing around; it can also come in handy when you’re shopping, going out at night and even trying to identify animals! To start, install an app called Barcode Scanner from the Google Play Store onto your mobile device. Then, open the app and click the camera icon in the upper right corner of the screen.
Scanning with Google Lens
For brands, this creates an opportunity for some nifty in-store marketing; for others, it can be just plain fun. Take advantage of the possibilities by going out and scanning some of the stranger things you see around town with the team from Zenprise here in the Chicagoland area! It may seem daunting at first, but we’re here to give you some tips about what sort of things to look for and help you get scanning as soon as possible.
Can I use my mobile device to generate custom links based on an image or text in the real world?
While we often see QR codes as a way to share an online link with someone else, there are many ways you can use them in the real world. If you’re handing out flyers for example, try including a QR code where you might typically put your contact information at the bottom of the flyer. This way, when someone scans it, they’ll get instant access to all the information about your business in one easy-to-access location! Plus it can even be used as unique way to give away free stuff!
Are there some privacy concerns?
Just like any other photo you take with your camera, the photo is stored in your Photos app and can be seen by anyone who has access to the device– such as law enforcement personnel if they have a warrant.
How do I protect myself from potential harm when scanning?
Scanning a qr code isn’t hard, but it can be tricky when you’re standing in the wrong place and have dirty hands, in bad lighting, etc. Before you spend time trying to scan a qr code, think about the following:
- Why am I scanning this?
- What is my goal in scanning this qr code?
- Can I complete my goal without scanning the qr code?
When should I avoid using it?
Scanning the wrong kind of code can lead you down the wrong path so make sure you’re scanning the right type of code. Some types include: URLs, which takes you to a web site; Phone numbers, which dials a number from your contact list; email addresses, which will open up an email app with that person already inserted as the recipient; text files (.txt), which opens up a basic editor with that file already loaded and ready for editing.
Be careful not to scan too quickly because this might cause Android OS to misread one type of text for another type and lead you in the wrong direction.