Below, we compare popular mobile barcodes in order to find which type may become victorious in the mobile barcode market.
QR Codes
A QR Code is a two dimensional barcode that was developed by Japanese corporation Denso-Wave in 1994. QR-Codes are extremely popular in Japan and more recently in the English speaking world. QR Codes can be decoded to hold all sorts of information ranging from VCards to websites and telephone numbers. Google makes use of QR Codes in their Print Ads.Alphanumeric Storage Capacity: 4,296
Data Matrix
A Data Matrix (also known as semacode) is a two dimensional barcode arranged in either a square or rectangular pattern. Data Matrix codes are widely used to "tag" small items; they can be seen on electronics and are used by the DVLA for holding UK driver information.Alphanumeric Storage Capacity: 2,335
ShotCode
A ShotCode is a dartboard-like circular barcode developed by High Energy Magic of Cambridge University. Unlike their square counterparts, shotcodes work slightly differently. Rather than containing complete amounts of data - e.g. a URL - they contain a link to a server that then holds the data. Basically, ShotCodes are the TinyURL of the mobile barcode world.Storage Capacity: 49
Of all these options, QR Codes are likely to become the main form of mobile barcode used for advertising, be it offline or digital. Their storage size and error capturing capabilities are exceptional and, since they already enjoy widespread exposure in Japan, it looks as if they could hit mainstream Europe too. Data Matrix barcodes, on the other hand, seem best used for "tagging" small areas, like electronics labels, while ShotCodes could soon become the hipsters of the barcode family.
