9 Fascinating Facts About QR Codes in 2024

QR codes interact with information, make payments, and access services seamlessly, making them a popular choice in various Industries. From Singapore's unified payment systems to China's tree-formed QR codes visible from the sky, something is exciting happening in the QR code Industry across the globe. Here are some intriguing facts you might have never heard before.

1. Singapore is the first to launch a “Unified Payment” QR

On September 17, 2018, Singapore became the first country to launch a “unified QR payment method” called SGQR. About 60% of Singaporeans use this system, almost 75% of merchants use SGQR, and 40% of hawkers accept QR payments. Source

2. You’ll see QR codes all over in Spain’s Public Transport

Spain is now a leader in integrating QR codes into public transportation. 91% of public transport in Spain is now integrated with QR codes, or “smart tags,” making it the first country ever to achieve such widespread adoption of QR codes in transportation. Source

3. Canada's Food Awareness trend with QR codes

In Canada, QR codes have changed how people access food information. 57% of Canadians scan QR codes to know more about their food. This highlights a growing trend in consumer awareness and integration of new technology into people’s daily lives. Statista

4. India is the fastest growing in QR code usage

Every year, India sees a huge increase in QR code usage, making it the fastest growing in QR usage, along with other South Asian countries. This rapid adoption came after the launch of “UPI” and apps like BharatPay, PhonePay, and Paytm. This adoption of QR codes has changed how many Indians make payments and access information. NPCI India

5. China's genius marketing campaign with a large QR code

China is a global leader in the QR market and has taken QR codes to a monumental scale. They have built a large QR code with trees, which can also be visible to you from a flight, to promote tourism. This innovative approach showcases how QR technology has grown diversely in China and how it can be used creatively for marketing and tourism purposes. Source

6. USA's restaurants are all in for QR menus

As one of the top leaders in the QR code industry, the USA is revolutionizing the restaurant industry with QR codes. Approximately 52% of restaurants have switched from traditional paper menus to QR code menus. This shift was accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift, at the same time, is transforming the dining experience for millions of Americans while also promoting sustainability. Source

7. Sweden’s currency has a QR code!

Sweden was the first country to launch banknotes with QR codes. This is a unique step towards enhancing security and traceability. Source

8. Russians use QR payments mostly to buy clothes!

In 2021, Russia saw a unique trend in QR code usage. Approximately 27%, which is the highest of all QR code transactions, were made in the apparel industry. While on the other hand, 8% were used for insurance payments. This showcases the diverse domains where QR payments are being used. Statista

9. Australia's crazy QR usage trend per week

In Australia, QR codes are a weekly habit for many. Around 36.40% of people scan at least one QR code per week. Australians have also made QR codes an integral part of their daily lives. Source

Here are some additional facts.

1. Every year, 1.5M+ people scan QR Code Developer-generated QR codes.
2. Every day, 3500+ QR Codes are generated by QR Code users.
3. China leads worldwide in QR code usage.
4. QR codes can store up to 2,509 numeric characters and 1,520 alphanumeric characters.
5. The Royal Dutch Mint (Koninklijke Nederlandse Munt) of the Netherlands was the first one to issue QR code-integrated coins.

In the field of QR codes, we have come a long way since their invention in 1994. From tracking car parts to taking over payments, menus, marketing, fintech, and even currency, these small, unique square patterns have significantly impacted our world. Whether it’s for our convenience or obtaining information, QR codes are proving to be a powerful tool in every domain.

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