What is QR Code: All You Ever Needed To Know (Yes; They’re Safe)

Life in the 21st Century is unthinkable without scanning a QR Code. Chances are you must have scanned a QR Code hours before you read this. But what is this square you see slapped all around—from a birth certificate to a gravestone? Come with us as we uncover everything you ever needed about the QR Codes—in unprecedented detail.

What is a QR Code?

A QR Code, or Quick Response Code, is a type of barcode that can contain data such as website URLs, calendar events, PDFs, images, or anything you can host online. You can scan a QR Code with a mobile camera to view the data.

In modern marketing and the digital era, businesses and individuals use QR Codes as a bridge to connect their offline and online worlds. Thanks to technology, modern QR Codes do much more than link to websites. Using them as end-to-end marketing tools to improve customer experience, collect first-party data, and improve business outcomes is possible.

A brief history of QR Codes

The QR Code was invented in 1994 by a Japanese engineer, Masahiro Hara, as an alternative to the stripped barcode. Their initial purpose was to track car parts in large-scale manufacturing units.

In the early 2000s, QR Codes began infiltrating consumer goods. They began appearing on product packaging, advertisements, and even business cards. Their gradual integration into everyday life increased public familiarity with these square barcodes (QR Codes are an updated version of the regular barcode you see in product packaging).

A significant breakthrough for QR Codes happened in 2017 when Apple and Google incorporated QR Code scanning as a native feature in their mobile operating systems. This made it incredibly easy for people to use QR Codes, eliminating the need for dedicated scanning apps.

On the 50th anniversary of barcodes, GS1—a non-profit that standardizes barcodes for global industries—announced "Project Sunrise 2027." It was an action plan for a global transition to QR Codes by 2027 from barcodes because of their inherent benefits for businesses and consumers.

Want to know the entire history behind this fascinating technology? Here's the history of QR Codes—from 1994 to 2024—in under 10 minutes.

How does a QR Code work and store data?

A QR Code stores data in binary codes (the patterns or pixels you can see). Binary is a coding language that uses "0" and "1" (also called bits) as symbols to represent other characters in computers.

Combining these bits can represent any information—from a simple text message to a complex URL—or even lead to a website or a video. This explains why you can view any content from a QR Code.

When you scan a QR Code with your mobile device, the pattern is decoded back into binary code to reveal the information it contains. Then, the device converts that binary code into the intended information, such as a website link, a contact, or text.

While QR Codes may appear to contain a random combination of patterns, each QR Code is unique and distinct. Using a QR Code generator, you can further customize it with different colors, frames, shapes, and logos.

📗Note: While you can customize the shape of the QR Code, the area where your QR Code data will be stored must always be within a square.

There are two main types of QR Codes: dynamic and static:

• You cannot change static QR Codes once created and cannot track their data
• You can edit dynamic QR Codes as many times as possible and track their data to measure their performance

Learn: The differences between dynamic and static QR Codes

How do QR Codes work

A QR Code is a clever technology that takes cues from its close brethren, the 1D barcode, while including some novel and unique elements.

Here's a breakdown of every element in a QR Code and what role they play:

1. Position marker

Note three squares on the outer edge of a QR Code. These are like compass points on a map. When you scan a QR Code, your mobile device identifies these markers to orient the QR Code and let you scan from any angle. They are also called the eyes of a QR Code.

2. Alignment marker

It is the fourth square with a dot, but not on the outer edge of a QR Code, such as position markers. It acts as the camera's focus point. It also acts as a buffer position marker and helps orient the QR Code image in case the larger ones are obscured or blurry.

3. Timing pattern

These dots or pixels run only between two position markers in the corner of a QR Code. These patterns help your camera determine how big the QR Code is and where each position marker is.

4. Quiet zone

You must have noticed a clear space around the outer edges of a QR Code. This is called the quiet zone—the most crucial part of the QR Code as it helps the scanner differentiate the QR Code from the surroundings.

5. Version information

There are over 40 different types of QR Codes. The version information is like the table of contents in a book—it helps the scanner understand how to interpret the entire code. It is located in two places near any two-position marker, depending on the QR Code's orientation.

6. Format information

This is located on the edges of three position markers. The format information helps point out the error-correction level and mark pattern or how the data is arranged. Ultimately, this makes the QR Code easier to scan and interpret.

7. Data and error correction module

This is the central part of a QR Code where the data is stored. It consists of most data modules or the pixel-like dots in the QR Code. Error correction module is the extra dots that help scan a QR Code even if some data module is missing. You cannot identify the data and error correction modules because they are mixed with other elements.

Types of QR Code input modes

An input mode in a QR Code refers to the method used to encode specific types of data. It determines how the information is stored within the QR Code to optimize efficiency and readability.

Each input mode is tailored for particular types of data, making QR Codes versatile tools for a wide range of applications. These modes are identified through version information within the QR Code.

Here are the most popular types of QR Code input modes.

1. Numeric mode

• Purpose: Encodes numeric data (digits only).
• Key features/limitations:
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  • Does not support negative numbers.
  • Can store up to 7,089 numeric characters.
  • Supported by both standard QR Codes and Micro QR Codes.

2. Alphanumeric mode

• Purpose: Extends numeric mode to include upper-case letters, spaces, and a limited set of symbols.
• Key features/limitations:
  ‍
  • Stores up to 4,296 characters.
  • Ideal for encoding mixed alphanumeric data such as coupon codes or short URLs.

3. Byte mode

• Purpose: Builds upon alphanumeric mode by supporting lowercase letters and more characters.
• Key features/limitations:
  ‍
  • Can store up to 2,953 characters.
  • Supported by standard QR Codes and Micro QR Codes.

4. Kanji mode

• Purpose: Designed for double-byte characters, enabling the encoding of Japanese kanji and kana.
• Key features/limitations:
  ‍
  • Stores up to 1,817 characters.
  • Uses Extended Channel Interpretation (ECI) for encoding Japanese characters in UTF-8 when required.

Learn more: How much data can a QR Code hold

Additional QR Code modes

5. FNC1 mode

• Purpose: Integrates GS1 barcode functionalities into QR Codes.
• Application: Commonly used for encoding product-related information, such as GTIN (Global Trade Item Number).

Structured append mode

• Purpose: Enables encoding of data across multiple QR Codes.
• Application: Allows scanners to simultaneously read and combine information from up to 16 linked QR Codes.

These modes ensure QR Codes remain a reliable and adaptable solution for diverse data encoding needs, from simple numeric sequences to complex multilingual text. Selecting the appropriate mode for your specific use case is essential for maximizing functionality and scannability.

What happens when you scan a QR Code?

When you scan a QR Code with your mobile device, a few key things happen behind the scenes to quickly decode the information stored in that pattern of black and white squares:

Are you having trouble scanning a QR Code with your native camera app? Check out our detailed guides on scanning QR Codes on Android and iOS.

The most popular QR Code styles

While these styles are not technically QR Codes, they share similarities in functionality and design. Each type serves specific purposes and industries and offers unique features for encoding data. 

However, standard QR Codes remain the most versatile and widely used option for various use cases. Below, we explore these styles and their key applications:

1. QR Code

The most widely recognized style, QR Codes, are two-dimensional barcodes capable of storing significant amounts of data. They feature three position markers—two in the top corners and one in the bottom left corner—to ensure accurate scanning and orientation.

‍Applications: Universally used across marketing, payment systems, logistics, and information sharing due to their adaptability and ease of use.

2. PDF417

Developed by Ynjiun P. Wang in 1991, PDF417 stands for Portable Data File, with "417" referring to its structural patterns (4 bars and 17 units of spacing).

Applications:

• It can encode large volumes of data.
• Frequently found on identification cards, inventory labels, and transportation tickets.

3. Aztec Code

Invented by Andrew Longrace Jr. and Robert Hussey in 1995, the Aztec Code uses a central finder pattern, eliminating the need for a quiet zone (the blank area around the code). This makes it highly space-efficient.

Applications:

• Compact design suitable for constrained spaces.
• It is commonly used for commercial bills and vehicle registration documents.

4. Semacode

Developed by the Canadian company Semacode, this style lacks position markers and is specifically designed for mobile devices. It encodes URLs in a DataMatrix format, allowing users to quickly scan and view online content.

Applications: Ideal for mobile-friendly use cases, such as linking to websites or apps.

5. MaxiCode

Created by UPS (United Parcel Service), MaxiCode features a central pathfinder surrounded by a unique honeycomb pattern. While similar to Aztec Codes, it has been optimized for logistics and postal applications.

Applications: Primarily used in postal services for tracking and sorting packages efficiently.

Why standard QR Codes are the most preferred QR Code style

While these styles are effective for specific applications, standard QR Codes are the most versatile option, accommodating nearly all use cases. Their global recognition, ease of scanning, and ability to store various data types make them the preferred choice across industries.

Popular types of QR Codes

Here is a list of the most popular types of QR Codes:

1. Website QR Code: A Simple QR Code redirecting to your website or brand.
2. Email QR Code: You can scan and instantly
3. App download QR Code: Need an easy way to get users to download your app? QR Codes can help redirect users to your app store to boost app downloads.
4. Location QR Code: You can share your location on Google Maps with a simple scan
5. VCard QR Code: You can create a QR Code to share your contact information with no typing or fuss!
6. Restaurant menu QR Code: Eliminate paper menus by placing QR Codes that redirect to your digital menu
7. Coupon QR Code: A popular type of QR Code used to redirect to digital coupons

Click here to learn more about QR Code types 

Are QR Codes safe?

Yes, QR Codes are safe. However, as with any technology, threat actors can misuse them to cause harm, forcing the FBI to issue awareness warnings.

Due to their simplicity and accessibility, people have learned to scan and trust them unquestioningly without following safety practices. This has led to a rise in QR Code phishing scams such as these:

Quishing

This is phishing using a QR Code (hence the portmanteau,“quishing”). This is one of the ways a QR Code is being misused lately via email phishing scams.

Threat actors put QR Codes linked to malicious websites in emails pretending to be from legitimate sources and for critical reasons.

Sticker-swapping

QR Codes can be misused by superimposing a QR Code linked to a malicious site on a legitimate QR Code in physical locations such as parking lots, posters, etc.

You might fall into a scammer's trap if you fail to recognize the sketchy QR Code stuck to a legitimate one.

QRLJacking

Bad actors can create a fake version of a “log-in with QR Code” page (including a fake QR Code that can harvest data). They bank on this log-in method many organizations offer as an alternative to standard ways of logging in.

You may receive the fake page with a malicious QR Code via emails, messaging apps, and other means. Scanning the QR Code will log you into the attacker’s phony session, leading to access to your sensitive data and account hijacking.

Best practices to prevent QR Code scams

Are you a business using QR Codes? You want to know this! 

Not all QR Codes are equally secured. A QR Code's security depends on where it is created or sourced. If you use QR Codes for business, it's best to make one from an enterprise-grade QR Code generator. Such generators honor the robust security requirements of using QR Codes in public setups, making them less likely to cause security lapses. 

An enterprise-grade QR Code generator like Uniqode offers the following security enhancements.

Here’s how some of the best QR Code makers, including Uniqode, fare against each other regarding data security.

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How to create a QR Code?

Generating QR Codes online is free and easy using an online QR Code generator like Uniqode. You can use it to create all sorts of QR Code types.

1. Select a QR Code generator
2. Choose the type of QR Code you want to create: Website URL, PDF, Location, Wi-fi, etc., and enter the relevant information
3. Customize the QR Code to change the logo, color, and design
4. Generate, test, and download your QR Code in your preferred format.

How to create QR Codes - A detailed guide

How to scan a QR Code?

To scan a QR Code, you can use your phone's camera app or Google Lens: 

• Open the camera app 
• Point the camera at the QR Code 
• Wait for a QR Code notification to appear 
• Tap the notification to open the link 
• You can also use Google Lens to scan a QR Code from a screenshot

For an in-depth, device-specific tutorial on QR Code scanning, refer to the following: How to Scan a QR Code with iPhones, Android Smartphones and Desktop

What is a QR Code used for? Top 7 real-life QR Code applications and their impact

In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Alfredo Colas, senior vice president of data, analytics, and digital go-to-market at P&G, said, "The best use cases (of QR Codes) are probably the ones we're not yet thinking of." So, we're still scratching the surface regarding using QR Codes.

Nevertheless, here are the top seven ways to use a QR Code in different niches, with a real-life example for each and its impact.

Benefits of using QR Codes for businesses

More than one out of every four Americans, or 95 million Americans, are expected to scan a QR Code on their mobile devices in 2024. This number is expected to surpass the 100 million mark in 2025. The benefit is in the data: people are scanning QR Codes, and there's an opportunity to tap into this massive user base.

Uniqode's data suggest a minimum of 70% overall growth in QR Code generation between 2023 and 2027. Of course, there are benefits (and money) associated with something that tens of thousands of businesses use. Here are some of them:

Works with existing infrastructure

One of the biggest reasons businesses turn to QR Code is that it doesn't need significant investments or additional infrastructure. Creating QR Codes is easy on QR Code generators such as Uniqode. End-users have QR Code scanners built into their mobile devices, which means scanning is as straightforward as firing the camera app.

Collects complaint first- and zero-party data

With the life-and-death situation of third-party cookies, Google and global businesses are doubling down on collecting first- and zero-party data. First-party data is the data you collect directly from users when they engage with your business; zero-party data is the one users hand over to you—both poised to power the next generation of marketing. 

There are many ways to collect it from online properties, but QR Code is one of the most effective ways to collect first-party data from offline and online touch points.

Increases conversion rate

A QR Code directly impacts the success of marketing campaigns by increasing the likelihood of conversion—the chance that someone will purchase after seeing an ad.

QR Codes dramatically reduce the interaction cost for an action that leads to conversion. For example, when someone scans a QR Code from your billboard ad, they are prompted to visit your website, which is optimized for conversion.

This approach is more effective than traditional methods that involve longer, more targeted sales pitches, which can often lead to a loss of attention and, ultimately, a missed opportunity for conversion.

Cost-effective

There is virtually no extra implementation cost when using a QR Code. Once created, it's like any other graphic element in your design, such as your logo. Moreover, QR Codes can help save money by moving all printed material online. With a small upfront cost to generate it, one QR Code can redirect to multiple marketing materials with a single scan.

Dynamic QR Codes offer the added benefit of avoiding reprinting costs by allowing you to change the data stored in them after they are created.

Better customer experience

You can customize QR Codes with your brand elements to create visually appealing CTAs (calls-to-action) from any touchpoint. This benefits businesses because users trust scanning a customized QR Code rather than plain, black-and-white ones.

QR Codes make engaging with a brand more rewarding and memorable for your customers. For example, users can scan a QR Code from your product packaging to learn about its story, behind-the-scenes, and more content otherwise inaccessible from regular packaging.

Environmentally friendly

A very popular use-case of QR Code is using them to replace paper-based materials, such as menu cards, fliers, postcards, etc., In the process, QR Codes eliminate the unnecessary usage of paper, which helps offset carbon footprint.

You can track QR Code data

Scanning a QR Code does not require physical contact with the code or a public device, such as a barcode scanner. Anyone can scan a QR Code using their mobile device that supports QR Code scanning. This makes a QR Code one of the safest tools to exchange information without cross-contamination.

Your imagination is the only limit of QR Code application!

You can use QR Codes for any applications that suit your business needs. From vCard QR Codes to share contact data to Augmented Reality QR Codes for interactive AR marketing experiences, QR Codes fit any use case. Check out some of the wildest examples of QR Codes.

What are the advantages of a QR Code over a barcode?

QR Codes are two-dimensional barcodes that store data vertically and horizontally, whereas traditional barcodes only store data in horizontal lines (hence one-dimensional). Being 2D helps store more data and makes QR Codes scannable from any direction.

Because QR Codes were invented to address the limitations of traditional barcodes, they have several advantages over them, which are:

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to QR applications! Check out 34 Epic QR Code Examples from Brands that you can use!

Busting QR Code myths

With QR Code all around you and skyrocketing since the COVID-19 pandemic, there's a good chance you know a myth or two about it. It's expected; popular things have to go through this 😌. But you deserve to know the truth. Here's busting some QR Code myths:

Are you ready for QR Codes?

QR Codes are not just a passing trend. They are evolving into a tool for connecting the physical and digital worlds with customers. As long as there are mobile devices, QR Codes will continue to be useful.

Moreover, with the near-death experience of third-party cookies, global businesses, and Google are vouching for QR Codes as a reliable tool to collect high-quality first-party and zero-party data to power the next generation of marketing.