Ever wondered how QR codes came to be? Ever wondered what function they serve? QR code’s are amazing tech that is so simple and the tech is experiencing a resurgence in multiple sectors. So, what are QR codes and what do you need to know to cash in?
by Kevin James Culp
Photo by Mitya Ivanov on Unsplash
First let me give you the geeked out version that I like from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia below. Just know the basics that a QR code is a 2-D version of a barcode that most everyone is already familiar with.
QR code (abbreviated from Quick Response code) is the trademark for a type of matrix barcode (or two-dimensional barcode) first designed in 1994 for the automotive industry in Japan. A barcode is a machine-readable optical label that contains information about the item to which it is attached. In practice, QR codes often contain data for a locator, identifier, or tracker that points to a website or application. A QR code uses four standardized encoding modes (numeric, alphanumeric, byte/binary, and kanji) to store data efficiently; extensions may also be used.[1]
The Quick Response system became popular outside the automotive industry due to its fast readability and greater storage capacity compared to standard UPC barcodes. Applications include product tracking, item identification, time tracking, document management, and general marketing.[2]
A QR code consists of black squares arranged in a square grid on a white background, which can be read by an imaging device such as a camera, and processed using Reed–Solomon error correction until the image can be appropriately interpreted. The required data is then extracted from patterns that are present in both horizontal and vertical components of the image.[2]
How can you get into the QR code business? An estimated 55 billion is going to be spent in the industry between now and 2022. A percentage of that is going to be spent in the medical industry and my guess is it will be a majority share.
Will QR see the rage of old and on plastered on flag poles and bus stops? Most likely not and their is a reason for this. The tech is being applied in unique ways that are totally new and in some cases it is simply that technology i.e. mobile devices that read QR codes no longer need an app downloaded to view the QR information stored inside. You can now just point your camera at the QR code and a link will pop up without the need to take an image. Repeat, you do not need to take an image for this to work on most current phones and if you have an older phone we suggest that you download an app using the links provided below. Then you would just tap the link and it opens. Depending on your phones speed, WiFi connection etc. usually what was once an actual download like a menu at your favorite restaurant, now the speed is so fast that in most cases the information is displayed within a second or less. Larger files might take a few seconds but nothing you would really notice or mind and the amount of information that can now be displayed and shared is amazing.
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Want to make your own QR code free?? Check these guys out.
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