A QR (Quick Reference) code is a variation of a barcode, having a pixilated rectangular image rather than a series of stripes, and can store pretty much any information you want.
QR codes have been widely used in Asia for some times, and Japan is going nuts over them! QR codes can appear on items such as food packaging, restaurants, bus stops, and real estate agents’ windows. When the codes are scanned, appropriate information is displayed on the smart phone, such as suggested recipes, calories and nutritional information, menus, bus timetables, and floor plans for real estate for sale.
Google wants the U.S. to be next to adopt! Starting this week, you’ll be able to scan away at up to 190,000 local businesses throughout the U.S. Google has mailed out window stickers with these QR codes to the most-searched for or clicked-on businesses in its local business directory. Anyone with a QR code reader in their phone can scan it to call up a Google Mobile local directory page . They generally include a map, phone number, directions, address, reviews, and a link to the store’s website. It’s pretty much a mobile version of Google Places. Google is also introducing the business coupons via QR codes. When the code is scanned the smart phone will display a coupon or voucher that can be redeemed in the store directly from the image on the screen. This will prove a great way to enitice someone who is standing outside your store to come in!
Google expects the QR code system to work effectively with the iPhone, BlackBerry, and Android, but says it should work with many other smart phones as well. Google is giving away 40,000 Quickmark QR Code Reader apps for the iPhone, which normally cost $1.99 apiece. But you can essentially use any QR code reader. There are a bunch of free ones, and some on Android phones as well.
Find out more..
Leave a Reply