DEV Community

Cover image for Introduction to QR Codes
Robin. J
Robin. J

Posted on • Edited on

Introduction to QR Codes

A QR code consists of barcodes in two dimensions, which gives it the capacity to hold more data. Since its invention in 1994, Japan, much convenience has been brought to our social lives.

Pros:

  • Alipay is a convenience-oriented application descended from the new technology. Chinese people typically like to pay for their items simply by scanning the QR codes provided by the shop owners. Image description

  • Moreover, in occasions where copy-and-paste is not available, QR codes have replaced the process of manually entering long URLs of companies’ websites. In this way, the amount of visitors of their digital Ads has been potentially increased.

Cons:

  • QR codes require a mobile device with a camera and connection to internet.

  • In places with conventions of scanning QR codes, you face the risk of being rejected by some restaurants that only have online order options.

  • Bringing your mobile phone everywhere indicates that there is no privacy of your journey. Mobile data or connection to any Wi-Fi keeps track of every footprint.

In conclusion, although there are risks of using QR codes, they are avoidable as long as QR codes are not over-popularized in a country.

Top comments (3)

Collapse
 
anshul_dashputre_9bd8a03b profile image
Anshul Dashputre

The article effectively highlights both the benefits and drawbacks of using QR codes. It's interesting to see how QR codes have evolved from simple barcodes to playing a significant role in our daily lives, especially in mobile payments.

Collapse
 
rj4793 profile image
Robin. J

Thanks! Really appreciate the kind feedback!

Collapse
 
tyler36 profile image
tyler36

QR codes require a mobile device with a camera and connection to internet.

QR code do not require a mobile device with a camera; they require a scanner. Most modern mobile phones contain a camera, and also the software require to "decode" the embeded information in a QR code.
The ability to decode does not require an internet connection. However, if a QR code has a URL embed you would need internect to visit the site.