What are QR code scanners
QR codes have become an integral part of our daily lives. These seemingly simple black-and-white patterns can unlock a wealth of information, connect us to websites, and facilitate various transactions. To harness the full potential of QR codes, we rely on QR code scanners. QR code scanners are versatile tools that read and decode QR codes, unlocking information and facilitating various actions. They work through smartphone apps or built-in camera features, making them accessible to users across iPhone and Android devices. QR code scanners offer efficiency, versatility, cost-effective marketing, and contactless transaction capabilities, enhancing connectivity in our digital world.
What is a QR code
QR code, which stands for Quick Response code, is a two-dimensional barcode that was initially developed in Japan in the 1990s. Unlike traditional barcodes that can only store a limited amount of information horizontally, QR codes can hold a significant amount of data both vertically and horizontally. This unique feature makes them versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications.
QR codes consist of a grid of squares arranged on a white background. These squares contain information encoded in the form of black squares and white spaces. This information can represent various types of data, such as website URLs, contact information, text, or even Wi-Fi network credentials.
Types of QR codes
There are 3 basic types of QR codes.
Numeric QR codes
These have the capacity to accommodate as many as 7,089 numeric characters, encompassing data such as phone numbers or identification codes. They prove particularly useful for encoding substantial quantities of numerical information.
Alphanumeric QR codes
Alphanumeric QR codes boast a storage capacity of up to 4,296 characters, including letters, numbers, and special symbols. These codes are employed for encoding text messages, URLs, or email addresses.
Binary QR codes
These are capable of storing up to 2,953 bytes of binary data, which can encompass images, audio files, or other multimedia content. They are employed in applications that require more intricate data storage capabilities.
How does a QR code scanner work
A QR code scanner is a software application or a built-in feature in a mobile device's camera that can read and decode the information stored within QR codes. The process of scanning a QR code is relatively straightforward:
- Activation
Open the QR code scanner app on your mobile device or use the built-in camera feature that supports QR code scanning. - Positioning
Ensure that the QR code is well-lit and properly aligned within the camera's viewfinder. Hold your device steady to get a clear image of the QR code. - Scanning
Once the camera detects the QR code within its frame, it will automatically focus on it and attempt to decode the information embedded in the code. - Action
Depending on the content of the QR code, the scanner will initiate a specific action. This can include opening a website, adding contact details to your address book, or displaying a message or discount coupon. - Confirmation
After the scanner successfully decodes the QR code, it may provide a confirmation message or prompt you to take further action, such as visiting a website or saving contact information.
How to use a QR code to make payments
Using a QR code for making payments is a straightforward and convenient process. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Download a payment app
First, ensure you have a mobile payment app installed on your smartphone. Popular examples include the Bajaj Finserv BBPS platform, Bajaj Finserv app, or any bank’s official app. - Open the payment app
Launch your chosen payment app and ensure it is linked to your preferred payment method, such as a credit card, debit card, Bajaj Pay Wallet, Bajaj Pay UPI, or net banking. - Access the QR code scanner
Within the payment app, look for an option to scan QR codes. This feature is typically found in the app's navigation menu or home screen. - Scan the QR code
Position your smartphone's camera over the QR code displayed by the merchant or the person you are paying. Ensure that the code is well-lit and within the camera's frame. - Review payment details
The app will decode the QR code and display payment details, including the recipient's information and the amount to be paid. Verify these details before proceeding. - Confirm and authenticate
Confirm the payment by authorising it within the app. Depending on the app's security settings, you may need to use a PIN, fingerprint, or face recognition to complete the transaction. - Payment confirmation
Once confirmed, you will receive a payment confirmation, and the funds will be transferred to the recipient's account instantly.
Features and benefits of a QR code
QR codes offer several compelling features and benefits that have contributed to their widespread adoption:
- Efficiency and speed
QR codes can store a substantial amount of information, making payments quick and efficient. This efficiency is particularly advantageous for businesses and organisations that need to share detailed information with their customers or clients. - Versatility
QR codes can represent various types of data, including website URLs, contact details, product information, event invitations, and more. Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of applications in different industries. - Cost-effective marketing
Businesses can use QR codes for cost-effective marketing campaigns. By placing QR codes on marketing materials, products, or advertisements, companies can provide instant access to additional information, discounts, or promotional offers, enhancing customer engagement. - Contactless transactions
In a world increasingly focused on contactless interactions, QR codes have found a new purpose. They enable contactless payments, ticketing, and check-ins, reducing the need for physical touchpoints and enhancing safety. - Easy integration
QR codes can be easily integrated into existing marketing materials, websites, and mobile apps. This simplicity makes it convenient for businesses to adopt and incorporate QR codes into their strategies.
How can we scan a QR code from a screenshot?
Scanning a QR code from a screenshot is a practical method when you have a saved image of a QR code that you want to interact with. Here is how to do it:
- Locate the QR code
Find the screenshot containing the QR code that you want to scan. It might be in your device's gallery or in a specific folder where you saved the screenshot. - Open the QR code scanner
Open the Bajaj Finserv app on your device and open the QR code scanner. - Select the screenshot
Choose the screenshot from your gallery that contains the QR code you want to scan. - Scan and make payment
The scanner will recognise and decode the QR code from the screenshot. Follow the prompts on your device to complete the action associated with the QR code's content.
QR code scanners have become an indispensable tool in our modern world, enabling us to access information, make transactions, and connect with businesses and organisations seamlessly. With their ease of use and wide compatibility with modern smartphones, QR codes have truly revolutionised the way we interact with the digital realm, making our lives more convenient and efficient. Whether you are using an iPhone or an Android device, scanning QR codes has never been easier, allowing you to unlock a world of possibilities with a simple scan.
Where can I pay with a QR code?
You can pay with a QR code at various locations and services, including:
- Retail stores
Many retail stores accept QR code payments through mobile wallets or dedicated payment apps. - Restaurants and cafes
Some dining establishments use QR codes for menu access and payments. - Online shopping
E-commerce platforms often allow QR code payments during the checkout process. - Public transportation
Some cities offer QR code-based ticketing for buses, trains, and other public transportation. - Utilities and bills:
Paying bills for utilities or services may involve QR code payments through relevant apps. - Peer-to-peer transactions
Use QR codes to send or receive money in peer-to-peer transactions with friends or family. - Events and venues
At events or venues, QR codes may be used for ticketing or purchasing merchandise. - Charitable donations
Some charitable organisations facilitate donations through QR codes.
Ensure you have a mobile payment app compatible with QR codes to make payments in these situations.
Benefits of using QR code scanner for business
Using a QR code scanner for business brings several benefits:
- Contactless and efficient transactions
Facilitates touchless payments, enhancing customer safety. Speeds up payment processes, ensuring swift transactions. - Marketing opportunities
QR codes link to promotions, discounts, or loyalty programs for effective marketing. - Reduced cash handling
Minimises cash transactions, streamlining financial processes. - Enhanced customer experience
Simplifies the purchasing experience, boosting overall satisfaction. - Data collection
QR codes aid in customer data collection for market research and personalised marketing. - Inventory management
Facilitates efficient inventory tracking, optimizing stock levels. - Paperless transactions
Reduces reliance on paper receipts, promoting eco-friendly practices. - Improved security
Enhances transaction security through encrypted QR codes.
