QR Codes
QR code is short for quick response code. It is an image that can be scanned by a smartphone camera to read the information stored on it.
What is a QR code?
A QR code is an image that stores data as a two-dimensional square grid of black and white pixels. The pattern in a QR code translates into numbers, letters and website links (URLs). These pixels are black on a white background, which makes it easy for a camera to read. A QR code is anchored by three squares around it to enable scanners and cameras to orient. The reading of a QR code takes seconds and it thus allows for quick and easy access to information.
There are two types of QR codes:
● Static
● Dynamic
Static QR codes: A static QR code is used to provide information that does not need to be updated. For example, a wi-fi QR code, which lets you connect to any wi-fi network instantly, or a QR code on packaged foods, which gives you information about their nutrients, ingredients and how to use them. Or those on the movie tickets, which gives you access to the movie screening hall. Once this QR code is generated, the data represented by it cannot be changed, although it can be scanned an unlimited number of times.
Dynamic QR Codes: Dynamic QR codes can be edited at any time. The URL linked with this type of QR code redirects the user to the main URL, which can be changed if required. For example, a QR code on a business card that is used to store contact details. In case your contact number changes, then that change can be made in the QR code without having to reprint the cards.
Applications of QR Codes
● Advertising: A QR code can connect you to a website or some important information about a product or event. It can open a form to be filled for registration and also give additional information about the event or offers.
●Restaurants: Since the COVID-19 pandemic, contactless menus have become popular. Restaurants make a QR code available on each table in place of bulky paper menus. You can scan this code using your mobile phone and get the digital menu on your screen. The advantage to the restaurant owner is that new dishes can be updated without the need to scratch and scribble on the menus and paper is saved as new menu cards do not need to be printed with every change.
●Postal services and libraries: QR codes are used to track parcels and books and get information about their location.
● Display information: A QR code can be used on products to give additional information about the product such as nutritional information, ingredients and more. In some books, like encyclopedias, a QR code may be used to lead the reader to an educational video that gives more information about the subject matter. This makes learning interactive instead of static. In museums, QR codes are placed with each exhibit. The QR code contains the information about the exhibit. In bird sanctuaries and botanical gardens, QR codes are put on trees and spots where particular birds can be spotted.
●Digital payments: QR code technology is making a big change in payment methods. Shoppers can simply scan the QR code displayed at a shop and pay the necessary amount. When the payment is successful, both the customer and the merchant get a notification. Contactless payments are accepted by small grocery shops, vegetable vendors and big stores alike. Auto rickshaws and taxis also have QR codes that can be scanned to make payments. Payments made this way are quick and effortless.
Concerns with QR Codes: There are some potential dangers of QR codes that you should be aware of.
● Malicious QR codes also exist; scanning these will start downloading unwanted apps on your phone. This can be a security threat.
● A QR code can direct you to a fake bank website, thus compromising your security.
● A third party can get your phone number when you scan a QR code. This is a privacy concern that researchers and developers are trying to address.
Did you know?
The QR code was developed in 1994 by the Japanese corporation Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, in order to track automobile parts during the assembly process.
