A QR, or Quick Response, code is a square image made up of other small squares that can be scanned on a variety of devices, including mobile phones, and can be used to distribute all sorts of information. QR codes were originally created by Japanese company Denso Wave in 1994 as a way to track parts for cars and other automobiles. They work similarly to a traditional barcode, though they are able to store much more data as they contain the information both horizontally and vertically.
Today, QR codes are used mostly to provide users with an easy way to access a URL address from their phone or mobile device, but they can also be used to distribute images, contact information, PDFs, and much more.
Effortlessly create, customize, and monitor dynamic QR codes.
Most often, QR codes will contain URL links to various websites. This is ideal since scanning codes doesn’t require any users to write down or remember a long and complicated web address and provides them with the information they need right away.
This is perfect for advertisers as it minimizes the amount of time that can go by between a potential customer seeing an ad and getting connected with the brand. Otherwise, the customer might see the ad, be interested in the product, and forget the name on their commute home.
In addition to URLs, QR codes can be used to distribute:
The potential uses for QR codes is just about endless. The ability to link codes to a URL address alone gives them an amazing level of versatility.
Some examples we’ve covered here include:
Like with anything connected to technology and the Internet, using QR codes does come with its own set of risks and dangers. Since codes are used mostly to distribute and access URL addresses, some nefarious individuals have used this as a way to send links to sites that can harvest data or even install harmful programs on users’ devices. While mobile phones are less susceptible to viruses than personal computers, they can still be infected from time to time.
For these reasons and more, it’s important to use good judgment and common sense when conducting any business online, whether or not it involves QR codes. If something seems suspicious or too good to be true, then it likely is. Of course, additional protection, such as antivirus and VPN services, will help you avoid most cyber attacks.
The greatest benefits of QR codes comes in their ease of use and versatility. As mentioned above, QR codes can be used to transmit all sorts of data, including links, images, and different types of files. Codes are easy to make and even easier to scan. Additionally, the technology behind the codes makes it so they can be scanned in a variety of conditions. Whether the code is slightly damaged, on a curved surface, or in a different color, codes can still be understood and scanned by most phone cameras.
Additionally, codes can be used in both digital and print media, can be scanned regardless of size, and are heavily customizable.
Effortlessly create, customize, and monitor dynamic QR codes.
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