If you're here, you've probably heard of "QR Codes" and probably wondered about their functions. So in this article, we will try to cover the topic in full.
In particular we will see:
- What are QR Codes
- How they work
- Where they are used
- How you can make your own
and more.
So let's get started right away!
What are QR Codes
QR Codes are a two-dimensional barcode format that can be easily read by digital devices to store information. QR essentially takes a piece of information and transfers it to your device. To read them you only need a device with a camera and internet access.
What does QR Code mean
QR stands for Quick Response, because it can be read quickly by devices. The data is therefore decoded very quickly. So, QR Code means "Rapid Response Code".
The QR code has "originated" in Japan, where it was developed for the marking of Toyota's supply division's units and components by its subsidiary Denso Wave.
How QR Codes work
The QR code can be scanned from a device and read instantly using just a smartphone camera. Each QR Code consists of a number of black squares and dots representing pieces of information.
So when you scan the QR, the code translates this information into something that is easy for the user to understand. That is, which man can read.
In simpler words?
The QR "holds" some information and when you scan it with your device, it appears on the screen of the device. For example, a restaurant may have its menu in the form of a QR code. So when you scan the code with your device, the menu will appear on its screen for you to read.
If you're wondering how you can scan a code, don't worry. We'll see in the rest of the article.
Where QR Codes can be used
Now that we've seen what a QR code is and what it means, let's take a look at some of its most basic uses. QR is used both in our everyday life, as we saw before with the menu in the restaurant, and for corporate applications, such as in supply chain and marketing.
But now let's look at a short list of some "places" we often encounter the QR Codes:
- Business cards
- Product packaging
- Tickets and vouchers
- Promotional leaflets and brochures
- Company vehicles
- Staff badges used at various events
- Lists of catering establishments
- Transactions
- Applications and sites
I'm sure you've seen a lot of the above, and you've probably scanned quite a few. If you think about it, there's a good chance that a few instances will come to mind. Maybe at a restaurant or on a ticket to a concert. One thing is for sure, QR will continue to make our lives easier and easier. In the rest of the article, we will also look at some predictions, on the future of QR codes.
How to read QR Code
Having mentioned what QR code scanning is, let's quickly go over how you can read such a code with your device. The latest versions of iPhone and Android, allow them to scan QR without needing any other application.
How can this be done?
It's very simple!
For iOS
You simply open the camera on your iPhone and focus on the spot you want to scan. A notification will pop up at the top of the screen that, if you tap up, will take you back to visit the page.
For Android
The process is similar for Android. You turn on the camera with Bixby Vision enabled and then focus on the QR code you want to scan. Your camera will connect to the code and read it.
Download application for scanning
However, you can also download an app on your device to scan passwords. There are several such apps for both iOS and Android, so you need to be careful when choosing.
For example, one such application for scanning is The QR Droid for Android. There are, of course, other free QR scanning apps compatible with different operating systems.
How can I make a QR Code
Creating a QR code is now a fairly simple process. For free QR Code creation, you can simply use an online tool. From the many that are available, the QR Code Generator is quite easy to use, as is the QRCode Monkey.
Attention to the colours you choose to build your Code! Black and white is the most "effective", as some devices may not read color well.
What is the future of QR codes?
A very good question is whether QR will flourish even more in the future. Already their use has exploded and from being the prerogative of industries, they have become an everyday tool for all of us. With a quick answer, we could say that QR will continue to "grow" its presence in our everyday life. I mentioned it above, after all.
But what does the data have to say?
According to Statista, the use of QR Codes through 2025 is forecast to continue to increase. To a great extent, too. One more prediction, wants the QR market to reach 1268.1 million (dollars) in 2026. We can see it all around us, that codes are appearing more and more in our everyday life.
In conclusion
By reaching the end of this article, I hope I have fully answered the question "What are QR Codes?", how they are used and how you can start using them.
What is certain is that will continue to be part of our everyday life, as it is also an integral part of the digital world, which is growing ever stronger. They will, in fact, be both at the service of Citizens, as well as the companies facilitating our procedures and of course our lives.
What do you think?
Do you think that QR will be used more and more as time goes by? Tell us by leaving your comment.
