I had mentioned QR codes a little while back in 2009 here on DotWeekly and created a QR Code using Google’s Xzing software that technically would send you to DotWeekly.com if you took a picture of the QR Code with your mobile device that had the code reading software on it.
Microsoft is joining the QR Code mix with it’s service called Microsoft Tag. Microsoft Tag is a little different then other QR Code devices, as there codes hold a little style to them instead of a black and white box. You can view many different Microsoft Tag Designs here.
The basics with QR Code, is a small image that can direct you to a specific spot on the web! With QR Codes, the maker of the specific code inputs a URL (Domain Name) where they wish to send the user once the code is scanned by a mobile phone.
Let’s put it this way, the options are endless!!!
Let’s say your friend has a cool shirt you like. The maker of the shirt can put a QR Code on the "tag" of the shirt. You use your phone and scan the QR Code. Once you scan that code, you are directed to a web page with that specific shirt that you can then purchase instantly and have it shipped directly to your door.
Let’s say you buy a lawnmower and it happens to break. The maker of the lawnmower can put a QR Code directly on the mower. You scan the code and it brings you to a web page specific to your lawnmower with an owners manual, replacement parts and other information about your lawnmower!
The sweet thing about QR Codes are they are small and can easily send a user to a specific spot on the internet. I could see companies making little mini devices just for QR Code reading that you could carry with you. Scan a code and be directed instantly on the web to the codes location.
Clearly print advertising would get a huge boost from QR Codes. If the ad is promoting a TV, the user simply scans the QR Code and can be instantly sent to a web page with more information about the TV, purchase it, read reviews etc!
It could be used just about anyplace!! Real estate signs, new car signs, used cars parked outside, your dogs collar if they were to become lost, your keys, magazines, business cards, product packaging… like I said, everywhere! By simply scanning the code, you send the user to a domain name! Aka, a website for more info!
As you can tell, I am pretty excited about this technology and can’t wait for it to go mainstream! Clearly there are hurdles, companies have to use it and cellphones and other devices need the software to read it.
BTW, did you notice the .mobi used to get the app? GetTag.mobi ! To create a Tag, visit tag.microsoft.com . It is currently free to do so during beta.
QR Code is a registered trademarked by Denso Wave Inc.
It’s a little gimmicky, but when text input is tricky, I could see there being a use. Is there a reason why you are calling it Microsoft Tab?
February 2nd, 2010