Today, Google has officially launched their new URL shortening service to the world and has included a fantastic QR creation, Easter Egg.
Simple by adding .qr to the end of any goo.gl URL the service will create a QR image for you to use with any QR reader.
A QR Code is a square matrix barcode, readable by QR scanners or mobile phones with a camera. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background.
The information encoded can be text, URL, or anything else you can think of. Simply viewing the code in the QR reader will then load up the shortened URL from goo.gl.
How QR Codes Work
QR codes, short for Quick Response codes, were first designed in 1994 for the automotive industry in Japan. They have since become popular due to their fast readability and greater storage capacity compared to standard UPC barcodes. The QR code system has become one of the most-used types of two-dimensional code.
When a QR code is scanned by a QR reader or a mobile phone camera, the black and white pattern is interpreted as binary data. This data can represent various types of information, such as a URL, contact information, or even a text message. The versatility of QR codes makes them useful in a wide range of applications, from marketing and advertising to inventory management and product tracking.
Applications and Benefits of QR Codes
QR codes have numerous applications in today’s digital world. For instance, businesses often use QR codes in their marketing campaigns to direct customers to their websites, social media pages, or special promotions. By scanning the QR code, customers can quickly access the information without having to type in a long URL.
In addition to marketing, QR codes are also used in event management. Tickets for concerts, sports events, and conferences often include a QR code that can be scanned for quick entry. This not only speeds up the check-in process but also reduces the risk of counterfeit tickets.
Another significant benefit of QR codes is their ability to store a large amount of information in a small space. This makes them ideal for use in product packaging, where space is often limited. For example, a QR code on a food product can provide consumers with detailed nutritional information, recipes, or even the product’s origin.
Moreover, QR codes are increasingly being used in the healthcare industry. They can be found on patient wristbands, medical equipment, and medication packaging. Scanning the QR code can provide healthcare professionals with instant access to important patient information, such as medical history, allergies, and prescribed medications.
The integration of QR codes with Google’s URL shortening service adds another layer of convenience. By simply appending .qr to the end of any goo.gl URL, users can generate a QR code that links to the shortened URL. This feature is particularly useful for sharing links in printed materials, such as flyers, posters, and business cards. Instead of typing out a long URL, users can simply scan the QR code to access the link.
The launch of Google’s URL shortening service with QR code generation is a significant development that offers numerous benefits. Whether you’re a business looking to enhance your marketing efforts, an event organizer seeking to streamline check-ins, or a healthcare professional needing quick access to patient information, QR codes provide a versatile and efficient solution.
Via Tech Crunch
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