QR Codes and Augmented Reality

QR codes can be static or personalized. They can also be dynamic and reprogammable. Once scanned, they stay in the user's phone for as long as the user keeps them in the reader's history. QR code scanners are built into mobile phones, so you no longer need to download an app.

Augmented Reality has a huge "wow factor." An augmented reality ("AI") experience transports the viewer from the 2-dimensional world of print, as in a direct mail postcard, product package, an out-of-home advertisement, for example, into the world of 3-dimensional design. Point a mobile phone at a graphic with AI, and it springs to life to create a memorable, interactive marketing experience. AI can show the animated scale of a product in 3D and much more!

QR Codes can be used to launch Augmented Reality without the need for a unique AI app. You can also use clickable links, a programmed logo to trigger a Web-based Augmented Reality (WebAR) interactive experience.

A Long Shelf Life

The value for marketers is enormous. Even if users scan a QR code only for curiosity's sake, if something triggers their interest later, the offer is still with them.

QR Codes are trackable.

QR Codes can help build a valuable list. QR Codes are brandable and show a 25 percent to 30 percent lift to a campaign.

QR codes actually have a variety of functions:

♦ They can take viewers to a mobile friendly Website or Video;

♦ They can hold business card information, automatically downloading name, address, e-mail and other info into the phone's contacts;

♦ They can store a date in the phone's calendar (the user must assign the desired reminder);

♦ They can launch a pre-populated e-mail; or

♦ They can deliver a text message or coupon code.