(Last Updated On: February 2, 2023)

It is possible to read QR codes with an optical scanner called a QR code scanner. To read QR codes, the cameras of most modern smartphones and tablets include built-in QR code scanners. Unfortunately, a camera is required to scan the QR code while sitting at a computer. That scanner to using your camera to read QR codes.  

Scanning a QR code provides immediate access to the information it contains. In response to scanning a QR code, the reader can act, such as viewing the URL in a browser. You may also use the QR code to connect to a wireless network, save the contact information on the business card to your phone’s contact database, or execute any other tasks. 

How many distinct types of QR codes are there? 

QR codes may make in various formats, but the five most prevalent ones are shown here. They all serve the same purpose, yet each has a somewhat unique appearance. 

  • Quick Response (QR) Code 

When Denso Wave first debuted its QR code in the 1990s, it used this version. Its distinctive finder patterns in the lower left, upper left, and upper right corners make it simple to spot. 

  • Aztec code

Welch Allyn’s Aztec code may seem like a QR code at first glance, but it has just one finder pattern. 

  • Maxi code 

The U.S. Postal Service uses this particular variation of the QR code. The finder pattern is central, like in the Aztec code. However, this one employs a honeycomb design instead of squares. 

  • PDF417 

The PDF417 barcode, created by Symbol Technologies’ Ynjiun Wang in 1991, is three years older than the QR code. Its hybrid appearance between a barcode and a Quick Response code (QR code) makes it instantly recognized. 

  • Semacode 

The Semacode, created by the same-named software business, is a data matrix that resembles a standard QR code but lacks the patterns used by scanners to decipher the codes. 

How can I scan QR codes? 

It takes very little effort to scan a QR code from your computer. Follow the instructions below. 

  • Activate the QR code scanner online
  • You may use the application to scan a QR code by uploading an image or using your computer’s webcam. 
  • Take your webcam toward the QR code you wish to scan, and you’ll be all set. 

What Cases of people using QR Code Applications?

Many advertisers use Quick Response (QR) Codes in Marketing that shorten consumers’ time to access the advertised website.  You May also use them to create a direct link for goods online. If you saw a billboard and liked the dress the model was wearing but couldn’t remember where you saw it, a QR code might lead you straight to the site where you could buy it. 

  1. QR codes on Barcodes packaging 

Many popular items now have QR codes on their packaging. These QR codes might give you more product details, such as ingredients or coupons for your next purchase. 

  1. Industries’ use of QR codes 

QR codes were created initially to aid in tracking automobile parts during production, and they continue to find widespread usage in this capacity. Other industries, such as construction, engineering, and retail, also utilize QR codes to keep track of their products and supplies. 

  1. The Use of Quick Response Codes in Mail Delivery 

International postal services also utilize them. Packages commonly rely on them for tracking because they may store a lot of information on them. For example, ASOS, a worldwide leader in the apparel industry, now exclusively uses QR codes to monitor returns. 

  1. Utilizing Quick Response (QR) Codes in the Classroom 

QR codes are often employed in educational settings to increase student participation. They’re used for anything from grading papers to assisting students in the library’s stacks. 

What kind of data can be stored in a QR code

Because of their adaptability, one may use QR Codes to store data. Simply scanning a URL will take you to that website on your web browser. It may also work as a database to save the names, numbers, and emails of people you want to keep in touch with. 

Do QR codes expire? 

QR codes do not expire, as such a thing does not exist. Behind the Quick Response code is a web address. A QR code’s functionality is not affected by whether or not the Quick Link is active. 

Is there a QR scanner safe way to scan a QR code? 

By their very nature, QR codes are a safe and reliable method of data transfer. They refer the user to the information stored in their device’s default camera app or a dedicated QR code scanner. A website address, PDF file, landing page, questionnaire, video, or audio file are all acceptable formats for such information.