Definition and History of QR Codes
QR Codes are a 2-dimensional barcode system developed by Denso Wave, a Japanese automation company, in 1994. Unlike traditional barcodes, QR Codes have more storage capacity and can be read in any direction. The main purpose of QR Codes is to provide fast data transfer and readability. Originally designed for industrial uses, QR Codes are now widely used in many fields such as advertising, education, health and marketing.
The use of QR Codes has begun to rise significantly with the spread of mobile technologies. These codes, which were originally used for parts tracking in the Japanese automotive industry, have become readable via smartphones and have reached a wide user base. QR Codes can direct users to websites, store contact information, and more with a simple scan. Therefore, QR Codes have become one of the indispensable tools of the digital world.
Awareness of QR Codes has increased, especially with efforts to minimize contact during the COVID-19 epidemic. Restaurants and other businesses have used QR Codes to present their menus or products as a way to minimize contact. QR Codes are also frequently used to store and digitally share COVID-19 vaccination certificates. This shows that QR Codes have evolved as a tool that not only conveys information but also facilitates daily life.