What is a QR Code

What is QR Code

Why is it called QR Code

QR Code stands for Quick Response code. It's a two-dimensional matrix barcode designed for storing information that can be quickly accessed. Originally developed in Japan in 1994 for the automotive industry, QR codes have become widely adopted across Europe for various purposes including marketing, payments, and digital services.

How QR Code works

Using a smartphone camera with a QR scanner app or built-in scanning functionality, the encrypted content of the code - whether text, URL, or other data - is decoded and processed. This technology has become particularly popular in Europe for contactless interactions and digital solutions.

QR codes have seen massive adoption across European countries for restaurant menus, museum guides, public transportation tickets, and retail payments. Many European businesses use QR codes to provide additional product information and enhance customer experiences.
QR Code example
QR codes consist of black squares arranged in a square grid on a white background, which can be read by an imaging device. The information is encoded using Reed-Solomon error correction, similar to technology used in CDs and DVDs.

With modern smartphone capabilities, scanning and decoding QR codes is now accessible to any mobile device with a camera, eliminating the need for special equipment.

Across the European Union, QR codes are widely used in digital COVID-19 certificates, allowing for easy verification of vaccination status when traveling between member states. This system has facilitated safer travel within the Schengen area.

In the European payment landscape, QR codes have become increasingly popular for mobile payments. Many European banks and financial services like iDEAL in the Netherlands, MobilePay in Scandinavia, and various SEPA instant payment implementations utilize QR technology for quick and secure transactions.

Anyone can create QR codes with different content using online QR code generator services, making this technology accessible to businesses and individuals across Europe.

Useful links:
QR code. Wikipedia.