QR Codes: Hardlinking and Object Hyperlinking for Easy Access to Information
QR codes have revolutionized the way we access information, providing a seamless and efficient way to link physical world objects to digital content. QR codes storing addresses and URLs may appear in magazines, on signs, on buses, on business cards, or on almost any object about which users might want information.
Users with a camera phone equipped with the correct reader application can scan the image of the QR code to display text, contact information, connect to a wireless network, or open a web page in the phone’s browser. This act of linking from physical world objects is termed hardlinking or object hyperlinking.
QR codes also may be linked to a location to track where a code has been scanned. The application that scans the QR code retrieves the geo information by using GPS and cell tower triangulation (aGPS), or the URL encoded in the QR code itself is associated with a location. This makes it easy for businesses to track the effectiveness of their marketing campaigns and for individuals to keep track of their visits to certain locations.
QR codes have been used in a variety of interesting ways. In 2008, a Japanese stonemason announced plans to engrave QR codes on gravestones, allowing visitors to view information about the deceased and family members to keep track of visits. This is just one example of how QR codes can be used to enhance the user experience and provide valuable information.
Psychologist Richard Wiseman was one of the first authors to include QR codes in a book, Paranormality: Why We See What Isn’t There (2011). This use of QR codes in books provides readers with additional information and resources, making the reading experience more interactive and engaging.
The use of QR codes has revolutionized the way we access and share information, providing a seamless and efficient way to link physical world objects to digital content. The versatility and functionality of QR codes have made them an essential tool for businesses and individuals alike, providing a convenient way to access information and communicate with organizations.
In conclusion, QR codes have become an essential tool for hardlinking and object hyperlinking, providing a seamless and efficient way to link physical world objects to digital content. QR codes have been used in various applications, from marketing campaigns to gravestones and books, providing a versatile and functional tool for businesses and individuals alike. 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.
