http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZtXgvxVsrY
If you have ever been to Japan or Korea there is a good chance that you will have come across people taking photos on their mobile phone of posters or groceries or even phone booths. It’s not hit the UK with any strength yet but this is a sign that QR codes are on their way. They have wide appeal in the Far East and are appearing on everything from CDs to soft drinks cans, biscuits to fashion catalogues. If you’re not already QR-familiar then here’s what you need to know. QR codes are a way of instantly getting information on your mobile about any product or service they see around with a code. Confused??? Look at the video below:
As you can see, by just pointing the camera at the Quick Response(QR) code and snapping a picture, you can instantly get information about anything that is embedded within the code. For instance: On taking a picture of a QR code on a Pepsi bottle, information such as the number of calories, available flavours and an option for entering Pepsi contest can be immediately displayed on the mobile screen. Some phones also come with inbuilt QR code scanners so one can just swipe their mobile over the code.
A whole host of companies are trialling the QR route include M&S, Coca Cola and the band Green Day. Microsoft has even developed its own 2D barcode technology called Microsoft Tag. Yet, there is a big question that needs to be answered. Why are QR codes not as popular in the UK and US as they are in Japan and in other parts of Asia? Perhaps business owners and advertisers have yet to realize the enormous potential of the combination of quick response codes and mobile advertising.
Think about it – a restaurant owner can place a quick response code in a print ad and ask the customers to scan the barcode to get that day’s menu or a discount coupon. It is not just limited to restaurant or fast food owners. Movie studios can benefit from it, retailers can benefit from it, small business owners can benefit from it – the possibilities are endless.
Even going by the most pessimistic predictions, it can be certainly said that mobile phone advertising will be one of the most sought after advertising media over the next few years. If that happens, QR codes will certainly become hugely popular. As the number of high end phone users steadily increases in the UK and US, advertisers will certainly look for new, innovative ways to reach the end user. When they do so, they just cannot afford to overlook QR codes.
And finally – if you’re stuck for a Christmas present idea, take a look at this lot and you might be inspired (or not).
Case Studies
Tags: Digital, digital marketing
Posted in Articles