2D barcodes are the most effective way of connecting consumers, brands and business partners. They allow us not only to identify but also to provide information about the product. This brings significant gains in transparency, traceability and sustainability, leveraging the digital transformation and empowering new business opportunities.

An evolution on one-dimensional codes, two-dimensional barcodes are a graphic image that stores information horizontally as well as vertically – thus enabling substantially greater storage capacity (they can store up to 7,000 characters, whereas 1D codes can only hold up to 2,000).

They can also be read/scanned, in any orientation, using a scanner or smartphone with no need for other specialised software.

QR CODES POWERED BY GS1 AND GS1 DATAMATRIX BARCODES

There are currently several types of 2D barcodes, but the most widely recognised are QR codes powered by GS1 and GS1 DataMatrix barcodes, which are used in a wide range of industries. They can contain various types of data (such as alphanumeric or binary) and can be read correctly even if damaged. They both carry all the GS1 ID keys, but there are some differences between them, making each one more suitable for certain cases.

QR CODE POWERED BY GS1

QR stands for ‘Quick Response Code’. It is the most widely used 2D code in the world today and is particularly suitable for retail because it offers consumers a multitude of possibilities: accessing basic and additional information about the product, giving feedback to the manufacturer or connecting with the brand.

GS1 DATAMATRIX

Although similar to QR codes, these are physically smaller, which offers greater data density in a smaller space. They are the ideal solution for identifying small products, parts or components, making them widely used in the healthcare, automotive and electronics sectors.

ONE SCAN, INFINITE POSSIBILITIES

The world is already adjusting to the new generation barcodes. Whatever the need for information, consumers, retailers, brands and regulators all need to have as much data as possible, as quickly as possible and in the simplest way.

QR barcodes, powered by GS1 standards, are the ideal tool to meet all these demands.