History of QR codes
Edited by Spencer Pines
Updated August 12, 2026·5 min read
Introduction
QR codes are all around us, especially in recent years. These little codes have gone from a niche thing used mostly in transport and shipping to one of the most recognizable images and used technology in the modern day.
But what exactly are QR codes? Where did they come from? Who invented them? Why were they invented in the first place?
In this piece I will answer these questions as I take you through the history of QR codes. There’s no test so no need to take notes, but let’s get started!
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What is a QR code?
A QR code is an image, typically made of black and white squares, that contain data. This data can be accessed by scanning the code with a mobile phone, tablet, or other device. They can be used as an easy way to access URL links, payment information, tracking, social media pages, and more.
QR stands for quick response, since the codes are easy to scan and are made in such a way that you don’t even have to line up the scanner with them. Just point the device at the code, and it scans.
Since QR codes exist as images, they can be displayed wherever you can put a picture.This could be digitally, through a billboard, movie, web page, or video game, or via print on a poster, flier, or business card.
QR stands for quick response, since the codes are easy to scan and are made in such a way that you don’t even have to line up the scanner with them. Just point the device at the code, and it scans.
Since QR codes exist as images, they can be displayed wherever you can put a picture.This could be digitally, through a billboard, movie, web page, or video game, or via print on a poster, flier, or business card.
Invention of QR codes
While QR codes were invented in the 1990s, the story of their inception really goes back to the creation of UPC barcodes. This type of code was created in the 1950s and was a way for stores to keep track of and better check out a growing inventory, with many economies booming post war.
UPC codes helped out cashiers greatly, as they no longer had to find the code printed on every product and punch in the number by hand. Just scan and go. However, they weren't without their shortcomings. Namely, barcodes were one dimensional and could only contain so much data. There wasn’t even enough space for the full English alphabet.
Additionally, barcodes had to be scanned the right way in order to work, which frustrated cashiers and customers alike. Also, foreign markets that didn’t use the English alphabet found them difficult to work around.
This is when Denso Wave, an auto parts manufacturer in Japan, set up a team led by Masahiro Hara to create a new code system to improve upon the flaws of UPC codes. Denso Wave had particular interest in a new system due to them needing up to 10 barcodes on each of their products being shipped out under the current system.
Inspired by the pieces of a Go board, Hara and his team set themselves to develop a code system that could hold more data and be easier to scan than the current UPC system, and thus the QR code was born!
Early use
QR codes were first used by Denso Wave for autopart shipment purposes. The system worked extremely well in this context and was soon adopted in the use of other shipments, like food and other consumer goods.
While not outright replacing the UPC code, QR codes did just about everything they were set out to do. Their unique design allowed them to be easily recognized, visible, store more data, and be scanned from multiple angles.
Widespread adoption
QR codes continued to be used throughout the auto parts and shipping industry through the 90s. Codes entered public use around 2002, when mobile phones began to surge in popularity. It was found that the cameras of cell phones could also scan these codes to access the content within.
As the technology of cell phones advanced, becoming smart phones, so too did the use of QR codes. Codes began to be used in all sorts of industries, namely as an easy way to check into airports, buses, and events. It was also found that QR codes could link to a URL address, basically making all of the internet accessible via QR codes.
QR code usage increased steadily until the COVID 19 pandemic in 2020, when use skyrocketed. During a time when people were trying to maintain adequate distance so as to not spread the virus, QR codes appealed to businesses and consumers alike, as it was a hands free way to communicate, transfer money for goods and services, and access a variety of information.
Current day
Today, QR codes are just about everywhere. From shipping labels to business cards, toys and video games to films and TV. Grocery store products, local and chain businesses, theaters, arcades, and more! It’s more than likely that you have encountered a QR code already before reading this piece today.
QR code usage has also surged due to services, like QR Code Developer, allowing users to create and customize their own codes. This allows ordinary people to put codes on just about anything they want and link it to whatever.
Conclusion
QR codes were created to replace UPC barcodes, and while they haven’t done that entirely, their usage has gone far beyond their intended purpose. From being used on postage, tracking, registration, check in, toys, games, and movies, at this point there’s nowhere you can’t find one of these square codes.
You can make and edit your own QR codes with the free tools available from QR Code Developer. Get started today to join the exciting world of QR codes.
You can make and edit your own QR codes with the free tools available from QR Code Developer. Get started today to join the exciting world of QR codes.
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