QR codes are incredibly versatile and can be used in various situations to enhance your marketing and promotional campaigns.
QR codes make it quicker and easier for people to learn more about your business and what you do, even on the move! Using it is an excellent way to give potential customers additional information about your products or services without taking up any space on your website.
It’s easier to pass over a website address than to take a picture of the it using an app on their phone. Read on to learn more about it.
Table of contents
What is a QR Code?
QR codes are a type of 2-dimensional barcode. They’re made up of square blocks arranged in a square grid pattern. The code consists of black modules on a white background and can be read by anyone with a barcode reader application or device.
With the advancement, now they are more customizable and not the typical black and white square shaped code.
Try Orderific’s QR code generator if you want to add a logo or make the it in different shapes and colors.
It contains all kinds of information, such as URLs or text messages. It can also encode contact information such as an email address, this type is called a “contactless” QR.
Types And How They Work
![Types Of QR Code](https://blog.orderific.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/13-1.png)
QR codes have a wide range of uses and can be used for various things.
There are many different types, each with its specific purpose.
Below is a list of the most common types and what they can do for you:
URL Type
This type is the most common form of QR code. When scanned, it takes you directly to a website on your phone or computer. URL QRs can also link to other information stored on your phone, like contacts, email addresses, or text messages. You can even scan an email address from an email sent to your phone and have it automatically opened up in your default messaging app!
QR Codes for Social Media
QR codes are used in various ways on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For example, on Facebook, you can use it to add a ‘Like’ button or share button to your website. Similarly, on Twitter, you can use them to create links that take users directly to your profile page or website.
QR Codes for Video, e.g. YouTube video, Google drive video
It also been used in YouTube and Google Drive marketing videos. For example, suppose you are creating an explainer video on YouTube. In that case, you can use it at the end of your video, which directs users to a landing page where they can get more information about your product/service or sign up for a free trial.
QR codes for Email
QR codes for Email are used to access a website or mobile application. Once scanned, it will open the link in your email. Users will not need to open any other application to access the link.
QR codes for Wi-Fi
QR codes for Wi-Fi are a great way to provide a convenient way for your guests to connect to the internet. They allow people to connect without remembering their Wi-Fi password or even knowing what the password is in the first place!
To use the app’s functionality, open the Apple Store or Google Play on your device and search for “Wi-Fi QR Codes.” The app will then direct you on how to scan it using your phone camera. Once scanned, you will be connected automatically without having to enter any passwords or other information into your device.
QR codes for Files
QR codes for files are the most popular type used by businesses to share information about their products and services. They are made up of two parts: an image, called a base code, usually black and white; and a text string encoded in the base code.
The base code contains several rows of black and white dots arranged in a square pattern. The content is encoded using Reed-Solomon error correction codes to ensure that it can be read even if some of the dots are missing or damaged.
QR codes for Files work by scanning it with your mobile device camera and then opening the link embedded within it. This will take you to another page where you can download the file associated.
QR code for Mobile Applications
![QR code for Mobile Applications](https://blog.orderific.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/20-1.png)
QR code for Mobile Applications is an enhanced version of the traditional 1D barcode. The difference is that mobile phones and computers can read the data encoded in it.
This makes the it an ideal solution for companies looking to connect with customers on multiple platforms.
They contain a link to the app store, where users can download the app directly. These codes are mainly used by advertisers who want to drive app downloads without paying for advertising space on websites or in print publications.
To scan a QR code with your smartphone, simply point your camera at it. You may need to adjust the focus or zoom slightly to get the best results.
Once scanned, your smartphone will automatically launch the appropriate app for that content type and process it accordingly, e.g., open an email attachment.
Ways to use QR codes to refresh your marketing strategies
Here are some ways you can use QR codes to refresh your marketing strategies:
Use It to target consumers on the go
The best thing about QR codes is that they allow you to target consumers on the go. This is especially important if you want to reach people who are not actively looking for your services or products.
It makes real-life interactive like the web.
With a website or an email, you’re limited to what you can put on the screen and how much information you can share. With QR codes, you can create interactive experiences right on the street or in a shop window. Your customers can scan an image and immediately access more information about your product or service.
It is free and easy to set up.
The best thing about QR codes is that they are so easy to use. You don’t need special software or expensive equipment; you only need a smartphone with a built-in camera and a reader app. Most major smartphone platforms have one available for free download from their respective app stores.
You can access information, get coupons, and redeem rewards instantly by simply scanning it with your mobile device. With more and more people carrying smartphones, this is a great way to reach out to your audience!
Conclusion
QR codes are effective at what they do, and if you need data to be quickly and accurately transferred to a mobile device, then this is the technology for you.
And now that smartphones have become so prevalent, it’s no wonder that so many designers are looking for ways to integrate it.
Now that we’ve covered what a QR code is and how it works, you should be prepared to take advantage of this.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of QR code?
The main purpose of it is to store and quickly retrieve information.
How do QR codes work for dummies?
QR codes work by encoding information into a two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned, decoded, and interpreted by a device.
What happens when you scan a QR code with your smartphone?
When you scan it with your smartphone, it typically opens a web page, displays text, or initiates an action.
What happens when someone scans your QR code?
When someone scans your QR code, they receive the information or perform the action encoded.