What a QR Code Is: How to Scan and Use It

In this article, you will learn what a QR code on a phone is and how to use it. You will also get to know what QR codes are needed for and how to scan QR codes on different types of mobile gadgets, as well as how to get a QR code to facilitate data exchange for personal and work purposes. And finally, we will reveal the secret of decrypting all these incomprehensible squares and spaces by yourself.

What is a QR code?

A QR code is a two-dimensional matrix barcode and is read by smartphones and other devices with image processing functions, such as, for example, tablet PCs. QR is an abbreviation for Quick Response. Instant access to a large amount of information in a large volume is the main advantage of this type of data encryption.

Initially, QR codes were essential for the Japanese automobile industry, where they were invented by local engineer Masahiro Hara. It is noteworthy that the Japanese company Denso prudently registered a new trademark right after its invention.

Here's how a QR code works: its pattern is a clear binary data sequence. Three square marks arranged in the corners of the frame help readers recognize the information. The scanner "clings" to these marks, then finds everything between them, analyzes the content, and presents it in a grid format.

QR code components

Each QR code consists of these components:

1. Cells that contain encrypted data. 2. Marks that define the distortion of images. 3. The numbers range from 1 to 40, depending on the version. 4. A format for defining the specifics of the information structure that is encoded in the decryption and is needed for error control when being read. 5. A kind of indent or border around the perimeter of a graphic image. 6. Dotted synchronization lines, which are located between the positioning marks. 7. Search marks in the three corners, which are needed to recognize the code and identify the location. 8. Alignment patterns that make the appearance of the code clearer and the layout more precise.

Read also: How to Protect Your Smartphone from Hacking: 12 Best Ways

What are the different versions of encoding in a QR code?

There are three versions of coding:

1. Numeric: it includes only numeric designations. 2. Alphanumeric: it contains numeric and alphabetic characters. 3. Byte: it includes any characters.

There are as many as three versions of QR coding, and there is only one version of the most favorable mobile Internet application abroad — the Yesim app. The virtual card helps you get online worldwide with decent speed and at very affordable rates.

The main thing is that your gadget supports eSIM technology. We recommend that you check your smartphone for service compatibility on this page before connecting and paying for the service.

If there is nothing wrong with the technology support, make sure you have the latest version of the application installed. Be sure to install the latest version before using it.

Types of QR codes

The types of QR codes that are known today are two approaches to encrypting information.

A static QR code stores information within a dedicated template. Such codes cannot be edited. For example, after they are transferred to a paper carrier, all encrypted information becomes permanent and cannot be changed.

If changes are made to static QR codes, all the previously printed information on paper carriers will have to be reprinted and redistributed. But static ones work forever.

Such codes are used to store serial numbers, product information, short texts, or links to websites.

The source data should be of minimal size. Otherwise, the template will be overloaded, and it will require additional time for a scanner to read a code.

A dynamic QR code inserts a short URL into the template instead of the provided data. The software stores the information on the server, so it is as convenient as possible to update the information here, even if you have already generated your own QR code.

In this case, there is no need to reprint anything; there are no barriers to updating information. There is a perfect opportunity to stay ahead of events and adapt to upcoming changes in advance.

Dynamic QR codes are tracked in real time. Thanks to this, it is possible to monitor scanner devices and know the time, place, and total number of scans.

Why do you need a QR code in your phone?

A large amount of information is encrypted in a QR code, which is convenient for use in advertising, the transportation industry, trade, and in many other business spheres.

Here are some examples of QR code usage with modern smartphones:

• instant comparison of prices for goods and services in stores, companies, and numerous online resources;
• instant move to the map, which shows the location of the needed organization and brief information about it;
• increasing brand recognition and brand loyalty;
• attracting visitors to social media, messengers, or online resources;
• communicating with the target audience, for example, to inform them about new products, expansion of the range, promotions, and discounts;
• e-mails with information about available goods and services, their benefits, and features;
• placing a QR code on a table in the cafe with a link to the website menu page to eliminate obsolete paper menus;
• quick provision of payment details for goods, services, or infoproducts.

How to get a QR code

You don't need any special knowledge or ability to solve complex problems. All you need to do is find a suitable generator program. It will convert almost any information into a QR code online. In order to use the obtained result with maximum efficiency, consider the following recommendations:

• Do not place a QR code on vehicles or other moving objects; it is almost impossible to scan it in such conditions.
• Make sure the image size is one that is easy to read visually.
• A good QR code is characterized by a high level of recognizability, clarity, and contrast.

Generating a QR code is not as difficult as it seems. To understand the process, let's break it down into the main steps.

1. Select and design the information a user wants to encode. 2. Copy all the collected data and paste it into the text box. 3. Upon request, add images, additional information, change background color, and make design adjustments. 4. Specify the width, length, and smoothing parameters to round the corners. 5. Use the "Generate" function to start the generation process. 6. Save the QR code in PNG format; this will help to preserve the quality of the image when used in different graphic editors.

How to scan a QR code

To scan and use a QR code, only a mobile gadget is needed. Android and iOS smartphone owners only need to follow the step-by-step instructions for scanning, depending on the operating system.

Thus, users will be able to find the necessary sites or pages with information about goods, services, or simply important messages faster. With the help of a QR code scanner, it is also much easier to search for profiles on social media.

On Android

Let's find out how to scan a QR code on Android. Most gadgets with this operating system are equipped with QR code scanners. All smartphones from the eighth version and higher do it with the help of their own cameras without installing third-party applications. In older versions, such functions are unfortunately unavailable.

To find out if your Android can scan QR codes, do the following:

1. Run the camera. 2. Point it at the QR code and wait at least two seconds. 3. Tap on the notification that appears to explore the information hidden in the QR code.

If this doesn't work, you may have an old version of Android that doesn't have this function. But this is not a reason to give up; the problem is often solved by installing a third-party application for scanning QR codes.

On iPhone

Let's see how to scan a QR code with an iPhone. This feature is on the list of standard improvements implemented in the iPhone 11 and all later versions by default.

To start scanning a QR code on iOS, do the following:

1. Point the camera at the QR code. 2. Wait for the scan to complete and the notification to appear. 3. Tap on the link to have it open in your browser.

If there is no result, it is quite probable that the QR code scanning option is simply not activated in the "Settings" section. On older iPhones, the issue is solved by installing a third-party application for scanning QR codes from the App Store.

Read also: What Is a Virtual Number and How to Create It

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