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Everything You Need to Know About QR Codes: Most Popular Questions (Part 1)

QR codes have become an integral part of the modern world, appearing on product packaging, advertisements, tickets, and even restaurant menus. They allow instant information transfer, providing convenience and speed of interaction. In this article, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about QR codes, their creation, and customization.

What is a QR Code and How Does It Work?

1. What is a QR code?

A QR code (Quick Response Code) is a two-dimensional barcode that contains encrypted information and can be used to create a fully functional digital business card.

The technology was invented by Masahiro Hara in 1994 to track parts in the Denso Wave automotive company. Today, QR codes are widely used to store links, contact details, Wi-Fi credentials, and much more. They can be easily scanned using a smartphone camera or specialized applications.

2. How does a QR code work?

A QR code consists of black and white squares arranged in a unique pattern.

When a user scans the code, the device reads and deciphers the information, which is then displayed as text, a web page, or another action, such as saving a contact or connecting to Wi-Fi.

What Information Can Be Stored in a QR Code?

3. What kind of information can be encoded?

QR codes can store:

  • Plain text
  • Website URLs
  • Email addresses
  • Phone numbers
  • Wi-Fi credentials (SSID and password)
  • Calendar events
  • App download links
  • Location coordinates
  • Payment details (e.g., Bitcoin)

The amount of information depends on the QR code version and type.

4. How is a QR code different from a barcode?

The main difference between QR codes and barcodes is the amount of data they can store.

  • Barcodes – One-dimensional, contain only numerical or alphanumeric data, mainly used for inventory management.
  • QR codes – Two-dimensional, capable of storing complex data and larger volumes of information, widely used in marketing, payments, advertising, and navigation.

5. Can QR codes be scanned internationally?

Yes, QR codes are universal and work worldwide.

They can be scanned on any modern smartphone or tablet. However, some platforms may offer additional regional features.

How to Create and Customize a QR Code?

6. How to create a QR code?

Creating a QR code has become easy thanks to online generators such as QR TIGER.

Steps to create a QR code:

  1. Go to the QR TIGER website.
  2. Select the data type (URL, text, Wi-Fi, etc.).
  3. Enter the necessary information.
  4. Generate the QR code.
  5. Customize the design (color, logo, shape).
  6. Download and test the code before using it.

7. How to make a QR code easy to scan?

  • Use high contrast between the code and the background (e.g., black code on a white background).
  • Do not invert colors – a light-colored code on a dark background may be difficult to scan.
  • Adjust the size based on placement:
    • Small QR codes – for business cards and flyers.
    • Large QR codes – for billboards and storefronts.
  • Use SVG format if the code needs to be resized without losing quality.
  • Leave a "quiet zone" around the code – empty space that prevents scanning errors.

8. Can the design of a QR code be changed?

Yes, a QR code can be customized to match branding by modifying:

  • Colors
  • Pattern shapes
  • Appearance of "eyes"
  • Adding a logo or a frame with a call-to-action

However, it is important not to overdesign the QR code, as excessive modifications can reduce its scannability.

9. How to add a logo to a QR code?

Many QR code generators allow users to insert a logo.

Process of adding a logo:

  1. Upload an image to the generator.
  2. It will be automatically embedded in the code.
  3. Ensure the logo does not cover key elements of the code.
  4. Test readability on different devices.

10. What colors should be used for a QR code?

  • Recommended: Dark code on a light background (e.g., black on white).
  • Not recommended: Light-colored code on a dark background, similar colors, or complex patterns.

It is important for the code to be clear and easily recognized by scanners.

Conclusion

QR codes are a convenient tool for storing and sharing information. They are widely used in marketing, retail, payment systems, and other industries.

A QR code can be generated using online tools, and with the right design and settings, it will be efficient and user-friendly.

In the next part, we will discuss QR code security, how businesses use them, and the latest technologies related to QR codes.