What is a QR Code (2D Code)? A Complete Guide from its Official Name to Creation Methods

Recommended Methods for Creating QR Codes

For creating QR codes easily in your browser for free, we recommend QR STOCK.

QR TOOL has the following features:

• Create multiple codes at once

• Specify error correction level and size

• Operates entirely in the browser for security

• Allows you to test the readability of created codes

• Completely free to use

For Windows PC Users: If you have Microsoft Office installed, you can create QR codes within Office applications like Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

For Mac PC (macOS) Users: On a Mac, you can generally create QR codes using two methods:

1. The standard "Shortcuts" app

2. Online tools

For iPhone and iPad (iOS) Users: You can use the Shortcuts app. It requires some setup but is recommended if you prefer using standard functions or create codes frequently.

For Android Smartphone Users: Android's standard functionality allows you to create a QR code for sharing Wi-Fi connection details. For other types of QR codes, you'll need to install a third-party app from the Google Play Store or use an online tool.

Recommended Methods for Scanning QR Codes

While many devices can read QR codes, QR STOCK is a convenient option for quick scanning. Its features include:

• Free, no registration, and available for commercial use

• Easy online scanning

• Secure, as analysis happens only within the browser

• Stores scan history, which can be downloaded as a CSV file

With QR STOCK, you can either use your camera or upload an image file containing a QR code.

How to Read a QR Code on an iPhone: The easiest way is to use the standard Camera app. Simply open the app and point it at the QR code. You can also detect QR codes in saved photos using the "Photos" app.

How to Read a QR Code on an Android: You can use standard functions on Android, such as:

• The Google Lens app

• The Quick Settings panel

• The standard Camera app (depending on the device)

How to Read a QR Code on a PC Screen: To read a QR code from your PC screen or a PDF, the easiest method is to take a screenshot and use an online tool like QR TOOL.

• Windows: Press Windows key + Shift + S

• Mac: Press Command + Shift + 4

How to Read a QR Code with a PC Camera: Some PCs can read QR codes using their built-in camera. Windows 11's standard Camera app has a QR code recognition feature, though its accuracy may vary.

What is the Official Name of the QR Code?

The name "QR Code" is a registered trademark of DENSO WAVE INCORPORATED.

It originates from the term "Quick Response," but the official name is simply "QR Code." Other terms like "2D code" or "2D barcode" are also used. However, since there are many types of 2D codes, it's accurate to say a QR code is a type of 2D code, but not all 2D codes are QR codes.

What is a QR Code an Abbreviation For?

QR Code stands for Quick Response code. As the name implies, it is characterized by its high-speed readability.

What are QR Code Models?

There are two QR code models: Model 1 and Model 2. The main differences are the number of versions they support and the presence of an alignment pattern.

• QR Code Model 1: This was the original QR code, with a maximum version of 14 (73x73 cells), capable of handling up to 1,167 numeric digits.

• QR Code Model 2: This is an improved version of Model 1, designed for smoother reading even when the code is distorted. It includes an alignment pattern. The QR codes we see today are Model 2. The maximum version for Model 2 is 40 (177x177 cells), handling up to 7,089 numeric digits.

What is a QR Code Version?

QR code versions range from 1 to 40. Each version has a specific cell configuration and data capacity depending on the error correction level. A higher version number means a larger code that can store more data. In the context of QR codes, "version" refers to the size and capacity, not how new or old it is.

Is the QR Code Standardized?

Yes. It was established as a JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) in January 1999 and an ISO international standard in June 2000 (ISO/IEC 18004). This standardization has led to its wide adoption both in Japan and internationally.

What are the Features of a QR Code?

• Feature 1: Store Large Amounts of Data in a Small Space: It can handle various data types, including numbers, letters, Kanji, Kana, symbols, binary, and control codes.

• Feature 2: Readable from Any Angle (360°): It contains three position detection patterns (the "eyes"), allowing for high-speed reading regardless of the scanning angle.

• Feature 3: Resistant to Dirt and Damage: It has an error correction function that allows it to be read even if a part of the code is missing or damaged.

• Feature 4: Free to Create and Use: There are no fees or procedural requirements for creating or using QR codes.

Is Commercial Use of QR Codes Allowed?

Yes, commercial use is possible. Since the technology is open and its patent rights (owned by DENSO WAVE) are not exercised, anyone can use it freely.

What is the QR Code's Error Correction Feature?

This feature allows the code to be read correctly even if it's partially dirty or damaged. There are four levels of error correction:

• L (Low): Corrects up to 7% of data.

• M (Medium): Corrects up to 15% of data.

• Q (Quartile): Corrects up to 25% of data.

• H (High): Corrects up to 30% of data. Higher levels improve resilience but reduce data capacity.

What is the Difference Between a QR Code and a Barcode?

The main differences lie in the amount of data and the direction of information.

• Barcode (1D): Holds about 20 characters of information horizontally.

• QR Code (2D): Holds thousands of characters of information both horizontally and vertically.

How Many Types of QR Codes Are There?

Besides the standard QR code (Model 1/2), other types include:

• Micro QR Code: A smaller version for use in tight spaces.

• rMQR Code: A rectangular Micro QR Code.

• SQRC: A QR code with a reading restriction function for private data.

• FrameQR: A QR code with a central canvas area for logos or images.

Generate Micro QR Code

Generate rMQR Code

What is the Role of the Three "Eyes" on a QR Code?

These three squares, known as Finder Patterns, are located at the corners of the QR code. They allow the scanner to accurately and quickly determine the code's position, size, and angle, enabling 360° high-speed reading.

Can the Content of a QR Code Be Changed?

A standard QR code is static, meaning you cannot change its content after it has been created. To change the destination URL or data, you must create a new QR code. However, dynamic QR codes are available. These codes point to an intermediary URL that can be updated, allowing you to change the final destination without reprinting the code.

Generate Dynamic QR Codes

Do QR Codes Have an Expiration Date?

No, a standard QR code itself does not have an expiration date. It will work as long as the data it links to (e.g., a website) is active. You can also create QR codes with built-in expiration dates using specialized services.

What is the Appropriate File Extension for a QR Code? PNG or SVG?

The choice depends on the application.

• PNG: Best for web use (websites, social media). It maintains quality and supports transparency.

• SVG: A vector format that can be scaled infinitely without losing quality. Best for printing and designs that may be resized.

• JPEG: Not generally recommended for QR codes as it's designed for photos and can create artifacts that interfere with scanning.

• WebP: A next-gen format for the web, offering high quality at a small file size.

What is the Recommended and Minimum Size for Printing a QR Code?

The required size depends on the version, error correction level, and the reading device's camera performance.

• For Print: A side length of 12mm to 15mm is a safe, recommended size.

• For Digital (SNS, Websites): A size of 150x150 pixels is generally sufficient. Use 300x300 pixels to avoid blurriness on Retina displays.

What is the Necessary Margin for a QR Code?

The blank space around a QR code is called the quiet zone or margin. According to DENSO WAVE, a margin of four cells (modules) is required. However, experiments show that modern smartphones can often read codes even with no margin, as scanner technology has improved.

What are the Various Ways to Use a QR Code?

Since QR codes are free for commercial use and can hold diverse information, the possibilities are endless. Common examples include:

• Linking to a website URL

• Sharing Wi-Fi connection info

• QR code payments

• Launching an email with a pre-filled subject and body

• Sending a letter or message

• Consolidating multiple links into one code

• Sending a short message (SMS)

• Sending a contact (vCard)