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QRCode (also known as QR Code, Quick Response code, or Quick Response barcode) is a type of matrix code and the name given to its standard version, which was invented in Japan in 1994. It is a type of 2D code that can be read by scanning with the camera of a smartphone or other device. QR Codes are used for many kinds of applications such as marketing, logistics tracking, resource access, document management, and user authentication. This article covers everything you need to know about QR codes – their advantages, types of QR codes, QR code reader software, and more. Keep reading to learn more!

What is a QR Code?

A QR code is a two-dimensional barcode (or "Visual Code") originally developed for the Japanese automobile industry but now used in many other industries. Like a standard barcode, a QR code can be used to pass information between systems. Unlike standard barcodes, a QR code can also be read by a human with a smartphone or a computer with an internet connection. QR Codes are two-dimensional images used to store data. QR Codes are the most common type of matrix codes that are used for storing information such as URLs, e-mail addresses, phone numbers, contact information, etc. However, it can also be used for many other applications such as marketing, logistics tracking, resource access, document management, and user authentication. QR codes aid in the storage and transmission of various types of information such as text, images, contacts, music, and so on. Most importantly, it can also be used to facilitate online payments.

Advantages of QR Code

These are the advantages of QR Codes –

Easy to Scan:

QR Codes have become the standard for mobile advertising and product catalogues. They are easy to scan with the camera of a smartphone or other device.

Simple to Create:

It is very easy to create QR codes due to the many online generators. You just need to enter the data that needs to be converted into a QR code and select the type of QR code you want.

Long lasting:

QR codes can endure harsh weather conditions, water damage, and extreme temperatures.

Unique Identifier:

QR codes can store a large amount of data, which can be read by computer systems and smartphones.

Thanks to companies such as Paytm, BharatPe, PhonePe, etc customers can now scan QR codes at merchant sites and quickly make payments for their purchases.

Types of QR Codes

There are a number of different types of QR codes that are used for various purposes. Some of the most common types include –

Web Address QR Code:

This type of QR Code is used to redirect to a website URL.

Contact Information QR Code:

This type of QR Code is used for storing contact information.

SMS QR Code:

This type of QR Code is used for sending an SMS message. Email Address QR Code: This type of QR Code is used for sending an email message.

Event Code QR Code:

This type of QR Code is used for storing event information.

Product QR Code:

This type of QR Code is used for storing product information.

Coupon QR Code:

This type of QR Code is used for storing coupon information.

Bing Search QR Code:

This type of QR Code is used for searching Bing.

Conclusion

QR Codes are an innovative way to add interactivity to your print marketing materials. With a QR Code scanner app installed on a smartphone, a customer can scan the QR Code and immediately receive more information about the product/service or be directed to a website/social media page where they can purchase. If you want to incorporate more advanced features like automated forms or customized URLs into your printed marketing materials, you can also create your own QR codes with software such as Campaign Monitor's QR code creator, a free tool that makes it easy to create and deploy custom QR Codes for marketing campaigns, event signups, and more.