Technology writer Dan Frommer (@Fromedome) of SplatF (@splatf) airs his grievances with QR codes on Business Insider’s (@businessinsider) SAI (@SAI). He says, “Mobile barcodes can be confusing and can waste time. And as mobile technology progresses, they probably aren't even necessary.”
Most people, before scanning their first barcode, have to download scanning apps manually and figure out how to use them. Then, each time there's a barcode to scan, they have to make sure they're using the right scanning app for the right barcode. That's because different types of barcodes, like Microsoft's "Tag" codes, don't always work in all the same apps.
He goes on to criticize how advertisers mismanage the creation and use of QR codes. He says
...in the future, if “near-field communication” mobile technology takes off, you may be able to just bump your phone up against a sensor to tell it to do something, whether it be to check you into a bar on Foursquare, take you to a website, or even pay for dinner. That's faster and easier than a barcode, too.
But then he ends in a turn-around:
Yes, obviously, barcodes have a place in the world. They are simple and cheap for commerce and logistics, and barcodes are widespread.
Read this in full. And be sure to read the comments.
Somersault (@smrsault) believes in the value of QR codes, when used properly, to attract attention and communicate effectively with those comfortable in using them. The key is strategic thinking. For example, read our blogpost "A Mobile QR Code - Literally."
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