What are these signs?!  

- They are called QR [Quick Response] codes. Very similar to [UPC] bar codes that we are all familiar with already. Their purpose is to transmit information to a machine when a scanner scans them. [like telling the register at the grocery store which item you are purchasing] 

So, what’s the difference?  

UPC Bar codes transmit numbers only; in fact, it is a fixed 12 digit numerical code. 

QR codes can be made to transmit lot more information which can include numbers and letters. It can be used to transmit website addresses, business card information, SMS messages, even tiny computer code. 

That’s it? All the hype for this? 

Not really. QR codes were developed a long time back. The excitement is not because of something inherent in the QR code; but for the fact that everyone (almost everyone) now carry a code scanner with them all the time which is connected to the internet i.e. their smartphone. 

OK, what’s in it for me?!

Just like when clicking on a link on the internet can take you to lots of different related information as authored by the website owner; scanning these codes too can: 

• Take you to a site that contains additional photos and videos of the product mentioned in the magazine 
• Offer you special rewards (coupons, promotions etc)
• Save the business card information on your phone. 
• ……These are just a sample; the uses are limitless. Expect to see these codes at more and more places. 

But, how do I scan a QR code with my phone?

There are many free QR code scanning apps available for all smartphones. The one I recommend is “RedLaser” - It scans fast, accurately and is free.

Click to download App for Iphone or Android. 

Now anytime you see these codes, scan them and discover what they have in-store for you!

For extra points, figure out what the first QR code above does. Tell me in the comments below! 

Follow up post [Coming Soon] —> How to generate your own QR code and use it for any of the purpose mentioned above? If you want to know anything more about these codes, let me know in the comments below.