QR codes are open format two dimensional bar codes developed by Denso-Wave in 1994. QR or Quick Response allows mobile phones with QR readers to access websites and messages simply by photographing a QR barcode. Most Japanese mobile handsets already have a QR reader installed by default. If you do not have a QR reader installed and your mobile handset is modern it's likely you can search for a QR reader application and install it for free.
The codes can be decoded at speed and are extremely reliable. Take a picture of the following QR code to see our website home page.

Text works QR code


How have QR codes been used?


There have been literally hundreds of ways that businesses and individuals have promoted products and concepts through QR code marketing. Here are just a few ways that QR codes have been displayed:
  • Business cards
  • Electronic billboards
  • Fliers
  • Websites
  • Email marketing
  • Confectionary decoration
  • DVD covers
  • CD covers

In fact the Pet Shop Boys clearly display a QR code on their CD covers. Companies of all sizes are using the QR barcode technology from local decorators to electronic billboards in Times Square.

Future application of QR codes


There are a tremendous amount of applications for this technology - it could be placed on designer clothing, public transport vehicles, television advertisements, search engine results and even restaurant crockery. The trick is to react quickly and be innovative.
Like all other technology this will evolve and become increasingly compact and accessible. But for the time being it still has the wow factor for consumers.

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