We’re always looking for new ways to extend the reach of the web world, and we’re very excited about the potential concerning 2d printed codes. These codes allow mobile users (with the right scanning application) to point their phone at a code and immediately visit a URL, call a number or send a text.
Who will win the top spot in terms of acceptance across the US and international sites? QR codes already have a head start in Japan and Google has added QR codes to their map world allowing people to scan a code and identify it as a favorite place.
Both have strengths and weaknesses. Here are just a few of our findings so far:
- QR codes support a higher variety of code types (email address, sms, geo coordinates)
- MS Tags can be printed significantly smaller
- QR codes are an open standard, so you can make a variety of different kinds of tags
- MS Tags have analytics built in since they all go through a single data system
- QR codes can be read by a variety of readers already deployed across many platforms, while MS Tags can be read by a single reader (developed by MS but available on major phone platforms)
- The detail in a QR code can cause issues with phones that have weaker cameras, while the simplicity of the MS Tag allows it to be read under tougher conditions
- Both can be integrated into applications for on-the-fly code generation and rendering
It’s hard to tell which one may end up being the industry standard, even though QR codes have a nice head start. We will keep watching and playing to see how this can enhance the overall experience for you and your customers!
