QR Codes: Augmented Reality, Multimedia Content, Mobile Operating Systems, and Virtual Stores
QR codes have become an essential tool in various industries, from marketing to commercial tracking. QR codes have also found their way into augmented reality systems, multimedia content, mobile operating systems, and virtual stores, providing a seamless and efficient way to link physical objects to digital content.
In some augmented reality systems, QR codes are used to determine the positions of objects in 3-dimensional space. This use of QR codes provides a unique and innovative way to incorporate physical objects into augmented reality systems.
QR codes are also used to direct users to specific multimedia content such as videos, audios, images, documents, and any type of content accessible from the web. This type of QR code is called “Multimedia QR code”. This use of QR codes provides users with a convenient and efficient way to access multimedia content, enhancing the overall user experience.
QR codes can be used on various mobile device operating systems. iPhones running on iOS 11 and higher and some Android devices can natively scan QR codes without downloading an external app. The camera app is able to scan and display the kind of QR code (only on iPhone) along with the link (both on Android and iPhone). These devices support URL redirection, which allows QR codes to send metadata to existing applications on the device. Many paid or free apps are available with the ability to scan the codes and hard-link to an external URL. This use of QR codes provides users with a convenient and efficient way to access information and digital content on their mobile devices.
QR codes have also been used to establish “virtual stores”, where a gallery of product information and QR codes is presented to the customer, e.g. on a train station wall. The customers scan the QR codes, and the products are delivered to their homes. This use started in South Korea and Argentina but is currently expanding globally. Walmart, Procter & Gamble, and Woolworths have already adopted the Virtual Store concept. This use of QR codes provides businesses with a unique and innovative way to reach customers and enhance the overall customer experience.
In conclusion, QR codes have found their way into various industries, from augmented reality to virtual stores, providing a seamless and efficient way to link physical objects to digital content. As technology continues to evolve, it is expected that QR codes will continue to find new and innovative applications in various industries, enhancing the user experience and providing valuable information.
