QR codes were invented in 1994 as a way to track vehicle parts during manufacturing. They were designed for fast decoding speeds, hence the name Quick Response code [1]. Since then QR codes have been improved upon to carry more information. Some common uses of the QR codes are, sending a user to a web site, sending emails, initiating phone calls, producing links to urls, etc [2]. Developers continuing to create new ways to use QR codes.
Mahala has designed a QR code called the S-QR code (Secure Quick Response Code) which enables consumers to purchase items just by scanning the code with Mahalas Mobile Wallet application. This enables merchants to put S-QR codes in social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, placed in printed media, like magazines or posters. Shopping carts do not need to be programmed into these channels.
The Wu Music Group has used Mahala S-QR codes to sell there latest Wu Tang clan album "A better tomorrow" through promotional posters [3].
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston has developed a useful way to use QR codes with Google glass. The Google glasses are "high tech pair of glasses that includes a video camera, a video screen, speaker, microphone, touch pad and motion sensors." The doctor wearing the glasses would scan the QR code and be able to view vital signs, lab results and problem while talking to the patient. This system enables the doctor to view the latest information in real time [4].
These are just some of the innovation that programmers and developers have used with QR codes. As technology progresses, it will be interesting to see what other ways QR codes can be used.
QR code
[1]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code
What are QR codes used for? By Michelle White.
[2]http://www.mobile-qr-codes.org/what-are-qr-codes-used-for.html
[3]http://www.mobilemarketingwatch.com/qr-codes-prove-hot-commodities-at-sxsw-40191/
They can be used to look up records instantly with google glasses.
[4]http://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2014/03/er-doctors-use-google-glass-and-qr-codes-to-identify-patients/
Nice article! It illustrates the innovative ways of using QR code. It is good to read to about ways of using the code other than just marketing. I personally think that QR codes are being put at places where it does not make sense like bus, trucks (for marketing), food labels, etc. Your blog changed my view on how a better usage can take QR code a long way.
ReplyDeleteYeah I had the same thought also. But after doing some research I found some interesting innovation on qr codes.
ReplyDelete