QR Code

The QR code (Quick Response Code) is a two-dimensional barcode developed by Denso Wave in 1994. Whereas conventional one-dimensional barcodes can hold data only in the horizontal direction, the QR code can store data in two directions, vertical and horizontal, so it can handle tens to hundreds of times as much information. As the name "Quick Response" indicates, it was designed for high-speed reading.

It can store up to 7,089 numeric digits or 4,296 alphanumeric characters, and it can fit a wide variety of data, such as URLs, contact details, and Wi-Fi connection information, into a single code. Thanks to the finder patterns in 3 corners, it can be read from any angle through 360 degrees, and it also has an error correction function based on the Reed-Solomon code.

Because the patent has been opened up free of charge, anyone can freely generate / use QR codes. This open strategy pushed its spread around the world, and today it is used in every industry, including payment, logistics, healthcare, and education. In Japan, the usage rate of QR code payment has exceeded 50%, and it has become part of the social infrastructure.