As 2D Barcodes become commonplace in the United States, and as more people invest in smart phones, it surprises me that so few people know about, or interact with QR Codes and Microsoft Tags, even when the apps are free and painless to download and use. Just follow this quick guide and you will be on your way to an enlightened mobile life!
STEP 1: Download an App for Your Phone:
iPhone
If you have an iPhone, download the “Barcodes” app from Google to interact with QR Codes, and the “TagReader” app from Microsoft to interact with Microsoft Tags.
Android
If you have an Android phone, download the “Barcode Scanner” app from Google to interact with QR Codes, and the “TagReader” app from Microsoft to interact with Microsoft Tags.
BlackBerry
If you have a BlackBerry phone, download either “BeeTagg” or” i-nigma” (or do an app search for QR Code) to interact with QR Codes, and the “TagReader” app from Microsoft to interact with Microsoft Tags.
Symbian
If you have a Symbian phone, app support is typically on a phone-by-phone basis. I would suggest Googling your phone’s model number and the words “QR Code App” and “TagReader App” to see if you get any hits. Alternatively, if your phone has a native app store, try doing the searches there as well.
Windows Mobile
If you have a Windows Mobile phone, download the “TagReader” app from Microsoft to interact with Microsoft Tags, and do an app search for “QR Code” to find a QR Code reader native to your phone.
Other
If you have any other type of phone, I don’t have a recommendation for you at this time. Good luck!
STEP 2: Find 2D Barcodes and Test Them:
You can start with the two that are above which point to Cramer’s website. You can also pick up a magazine and thumb through it, pause your DVR at the end of commercials, or take a closer look at product packaging to find some examples of 2D Barcodes around you. Once you’ve found one, launch your app and give it a try. Make sure you line up your camera phone with the entire barcode in the viewing window. Also make sure you are in a place with proper lighting to allow the app quick and accurate processing of the barcode. Enjoy your results!
STEP 3: Make Your Own Codes:
OR Codes
If you want to make a QR Code, start with Google’s ZXing project, if it doesn’t fulfill your needs, try Kerem Erkan’s generator.
Microsoft Tag
If you want to make a Microsoft Tag, visit Microsoft’s Tag website, sign in, and get to it!
STEP 4: And Your World Will Be a Brighter Place!
(I promise.)