QR codes were created in Japan in 1994 by DENSO WAVE, a subsidiary of Toyota, to improve the tracking of vehicles and parts in the automotive industry and was looking for a faster and more robust technology than the traditional barcode.
Led by Masahiro Hara, his team developed a technology that made it possible to read large amounts of information quickly. After a year of research, they managed to define an ideal ratio of black-to-white areas (1:1:3:1), which allowed the codes to be scanned from any angle. Although initially designed for the manufacturing sector, the popularization of smartphones and their open-source nature have extended their use to multiple industries, improving interaction between customers and products.
With QR codes, customers can instantly access detailed product information such as webpages, promotions, usage instructions, and more. Rather than relying solely on traditional labels, consumers can scan a QR code easily with their smartphones to obtain additional product details. In this post, we will explore how to use QR codes to improve the shopping experience.
Evolution from Barcodes to QR Codes
For decades, traditional barcodes have been foundational in retail, though they offer limited data capacity. QR codes emerged to provide more flexibility by linking to detailed information stored online like product origin or usage suggestions, enabling consumers to scan codes for instant access to additional content.
This evolution from barcodes to QR codes has enhanced transparency, allowing brands to connect with customers in more meaningful ways. Imagine scanning a clothing label that instantly gives you styling suggestions, care instructions, or sustainability details, all enhancing the shopping experience before the purchase.
Integrating QR Codes with RFID Technology
One of the most groundbreaking innovations in this space is how to use QR codes with RFID technology, particularly in the context of Digital Product Passports (DPP). While QR codes provide immediate access to product information, Near Field Communication (NFC) - a type of RFID technology - adds a new layer of interaction and traceability. NFC allows consumers to simply tap their phones on a product label to retrieve specific information, creating a highly convenient user experience. This interaction, powered by RFID’s wireless identification capabilities, also enhances the accuracy and security of item tracking throughout the supply chain.
Checkpoint Systems has introduced GEMINI TAG™, an innovative solution for retail labeling. This technology combines QR codes and RFID technology into a single system, transforming how brands deliver information to consumers. GEMINI TAG includes two identical codes, which can be QR, barcodes, or others, placed on a sewn-in pocket label and a sticker on the hangtag. By scanning the QR code linked to the RFID tag, consumers can access specific product information, such as where the item was manufactured, the materials used, and details about the brand’s sustainability practices. This enhances consumer experience by offering greater transparency and helps brands align with their sustainability goals, addressing key aspects of the DPP initiative.
By combining QR codes with NFC RFID technology, brands can create a richer, more interactive shopping experience. Solutions like the GEMINI TAG™ reflect the industry’s move toward a smoother, more informative experience for consumers, aligning with modern transparency and sustainability standards.
