ICM - Leeds Design Agency

A QR Code is a matrix code (or two-dimensional bar code) created in Japan in 1994. The ‘QR’ is derived from ‘Quick Response’, as the creators intended the code to allow its contents to be decoded at high speed.

QR Codes are most common in Japan, where they are currently the most popular type of two dimensional codes. Moreover, most current Japanese mobile phones can read this code with their camera.

Initially used for tracking parts in vehicle manufacturing, QR Codes are now used in a much broader context, including both commercial tracking applications and convenience-oriented applications aimed at mobile phone users – this is known as mobile-tagging.

QR Codes storing addresses and URLs are starting to appear in magazines, on signs, buses, packaging, business cards or just about any object that users might need information about. Users with a camera phone equipped with the correct reader software can scan the image of the QR Code causing the phone’s browser to launch and redirect to the programmed URL. This act of linking from physical world objects is known as a hardlink or physical world hyperlinking.

In 2006 the QR Code became ISO recognised – this means the QR Code should be around for years to come – keep your eyes peeled for more and more QR Codes cropping up in daily life and start linking the real world with the online wor…

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Here’s the latest in a series of ‘Did you know’ viral videos from US company Xplane.

It features facts and stats focusing on the changing media landscape, including convergence and technology. The clip details compelling facts and statistics in a unique and clear design that visually depicts the information in a way that is understandable and intriguing to the viewer. Xplane created the video using Apple’s Keynote software.