What is that strange looking bar code and what does it do?

I have always been intrigued by technology and enjoy looking for what will be one of the next big things.  Over the years I have seen a new way to help people with mobile phones get more connected to the web through the use of small bar codes just like the one shown above. 

This bar code is known as a QR code or quick response code.  Downloading the scanner software to your phone allows you to take a picture of the QR code and get the digital content you are looking for without any typing or searching.  Just snap a picture of the bar code and you will be directed to the information.  I have noticed that the QR codes are now showing up more in print media to let the reader get more information on what they are looking for in real-time. 

When this technology first came out it was so frustrating to use that most people gave up.  Though it is still not perfect, it has gotten a lot better.  The scanner software that loads on your phone can be found for free. You can generate code for free now also if you know where to look. 

I know what you are saying: “What is this good for and why would I use it?”  For a Realtor like myself this is a perfect way to link to my listings, web site, YouTube video, or any other digital media from a simple flyer or email. 

To try it out all you have to do is get a QR reader for your phone and start taking pictures of the bar codes. I have been using i-nigma and have found it to be very user-friendly.  From your mobile browser go to:

http://www.i-nigma.mobi

After that just follow the instructions.

To see more on how this works and see some examples go to this video I found on YouTube.  This video is not me and I am not endorsing this company, I just thought he does a good job explaining it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vS3R2u7sXA