What are 2D Barcodes

A 2D barcode is a progressive technology the extends on the concept of barcoding. In its 40th version currently, these barcodes can hold 1,852 characters. The difference between a 2D and a 1D is that 2D moves beyond being linear and can be multi-row or in a matrix. You may know of them also as a quick response code, or QR code.

By definition these technically aren't barcodes, but are called such because of the similarity in usage via an optical scanner.

Available Shapes and Symbols

Unlike its linear predecessor, these codes have a much higher capacity, and it is an expanding technology. Shapes can include numerous types of symbols:

• rectangles
• hexagons
• dots
• other special patterns

Impact of the Smartphone

QR codes are popular with smartphone users, especially over recent years as additional applications have become available. The data stored on these codes can be used by marketers to direct a person to particular webpage, or more often, consumers will use them in price comparison situations. In these situations consumers will scan the barcode at a retail store and see whether the item is available online at another retailer for a lower price.

It is estimated that 2D barcodes will change how retail works. Large electronic stores such as Best Buy have been hit dramatically because people will use their store as a showroom, and later purchase online after scanning a QR code in-store and doing in person research.

Video: How Does a 2D Barcode Work?

Author: Kyle Sarasin