Myths About QR Codes
With the advancement of technology and the growing use of QR codes in everyday life, many myths and misunderstandings have arisen about these black-and-white squares. QR codes emerged as a convenient tool for quick access to information, but their popularity has also led to the spread of various rumors, causing people to fear and doubt their safety and effectiveness. In this text, we will examine 13 of the most common myths about QR codes and attempt to debunk them, showing the true capabilities and benefits of this technological solution that makes it easy to create an electronic business card.
Myth 1: QR codes are only meant for web pages
Many mistakenly believe that QR codes can only store URLs, redirecting users to websites. However, this is far from the truth. QR codes can direct users to social media pages, applications, and store various types of files such as PDFs, images, videos, and audio. Dynamic QR codes can contain multiple links and redirect to different landing pages, offering a wide range of possibilities.
Myth 2: You can't change the destination of a QR code
This myth is partially true, but only for static QR codes. Dynamic QR codes, on the other hand, allow you to change the landing page even after the code has been created and distributed. This makes them convenient for use in marketing campaigns where information needs to stay up to date.
Myth 3: Hackers can "hijack" a QR code
There is a concern that malicious actors could change the link in a QR code and redirect users to malicious websites. However, this is only possible if they gain access to the creator's credentials, which is highly unlikely. The unique structure of each QR code also protects it from tampering.
Myth 4: No one scans QR codes anymore
At first glance, it may seem that QR codes have lost their popularity, but statistics say otherwise. In China, over 90% of mobile payments are made using QR codes, and in the United States, more than half of those surveyed believe they will continue to use QR codes in the future. The data confirms that QR codes remain an important tool for millions of people worldwide.
Myth 5: It's too difficult to scan a QR code
Modern smartphones are equipped with built-in scanners accessible through the device's camera. For Android devices, pre-installed scanner apps are also available. The scanning process is simple and intuitive: just point the camera at the code, and the link will appear on the screen.
Myth 6: QR codes are less effective than NFC tags
NFC (Near Field Communication) technology does have its advantages, but it requires close contact between devices, which limits its application. In contrast, QR codes can be scanned from a distance, making them more practical and accessible. Additionally, creating QR codes is cheaper and easier.
Myth 7: QR codes don't contain analytics
While static QR codes cannot track data, dynamic QR codes are equipped with tracking features that allow you to analyze location, scan time, and the device used for scanning. This makes QR codes a powerful tool for marketing research.
Myth 8: QR codes are boring because they all look the same
Nowadays, there are many tools for customizing QR codes. You can change the color, shape, and add logos to make the code match your company's brand, making it more attractive and unique.
Myth 9: QR codes are easily damaged
Even if a QR code is slightly damaged, it can still be scanned thanks to its built-in error correction feature. Depending on the level of this feature, a QR code can withstand up to 30% damage without losing readability.
Myth 10: Visual recognition will surpass QR codes
Visual recognition technology has potential, but currently, it is not as practical or accessible as QR codes. To read a QR code, all you need is a smartphone with a camera, making QR codes a more convenient and widespread tool.
Myth 11: QR codes have limited capabilities
QR codes are used in a wide range of fields, from restaurants to logistics and healthcare. Their application continues to expand, and the possibilities are limited only by the user's creativity.
Myth 12: You can't create unique QR codes in bulk
This is a misconception. There are tools for bulk creation of unique QR codes, allowing you to generate them in large quantities quickly and easily, which is especially useful for companies with a large volume of products.
Myth 13: QR codes are just a fad
Some believe that QR codes are a temporary phenomenon, but their use continues to grow. They provide secure data storage, convenient information sharing, and are widely used in various industries. QR codes remain a relevant and effective tool that is here to stay.
QR codes have firmly established themselves in our lives, and despite the many myths, they continue to be a reliable and versatile tool for transmitting information. Debunking these myths will help users better understand how QR codes work and use them to their fullest potential. QR codes are not just a trend; they are a valuable tool that has already proven its worth and continues to evolve.