Tickle Your Brain

QR Codes
A QR code shown on a phone with a light blue background.

We see QR Codes everywhere. Do you know what they are?

QR Codes are a specialized two-dimensional bar code that can be scanned easily with a smartphone. It directs you to an internet link. You can also use a QR Code reader app if you’re using an older phone.

QR codes are a square-shaped black dot and white background matrix that holds crucial information. Different colors can be used in addition to black on white. QR Codes were first invented in 1994 for a Japanese automotive company called Denso Wave. The codes were used to track car parts.

QR Codes may be used to display text to the user, to open a URL, save a contact to the address book, to compose text messages and many other ways. 

A phone is in the corner of the picture, with a QR code on the screen. , Clipart of a finger touching a phone screen with a QR code on the screen.
Did You Know?
  • QR stands for Quick Response, referring to the instant access to the information hidden in the code.
  • QRs are two-dimensional, meaning they can store information both horizontally and vertically.
  • There are websites available for you to create your own QR Codes.