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windows live barcode: QR code at last?

windows live barcode

Microsoft keeps dominating the space and setting the pace. However in this instance, it might mean the true birth of the QR code in the U.S. A few posts ago I noted my favorite U.S.-based 2D code ConnexTo’s mCode as well as the promising ShotCode and pondered “when will standards come into play and we can truly use the QR code here in the states?” well - this week Microsoft announced Windows Live Barcode a.k.a. the QR code - and it seems at least within a certain target group (enterprise) we might have a winner at last.

What is Windows Live Barcode

Windows Live Barcode is a set of services that transfer information between various media (PCs, billboards, magazines etc.) and handsets via Quick Response Code (QR Code), a two-dimensional barcode. It provides a new method for people to exchange information and enjoy various online services on handsets. Windows Live Barcode aims to enhance handset utility and provide you with more convenience and flexibility.

What is QR Code

The QR Code is a two-dimensional barcode. It contains a considerably greater volume of information in both vertical and horizontal directions than typical barcode in one dimension.

* QR Code® is a registered trademark of Denso Wave Inc.

Here is my gotomedia business card in a QR code created on Microsoft’s Windows Live Barcode site:

gotomedia QR code

I’m very interested to see if this can truly take off as an ‘offline URL’ or ‘2D barcode’ or system we can use to take information transfer to the next level. Although paced by the industry giant - perhaps this is the kick start we need in order to achieve the ubiquity we’ve been seeking for several years now.

Posted on October 29th, 2006 in Thoughts
Tagged as , , , , ,
Written by Kelly Goto

5 Responses to “windows live barcode: QR code at last?”

Comments

  1. swamp thing says:
    October 29th, 2006

    To get from the QR code to the web site or content for that code using a mobile device would be treading on a technology ready to hit the masses.

    A free application/platform is going to change our mobile device into the next instrument on how conntect to things.

    One click access

    Check out http://www.qode.com

    http://www.neom.com

    Is MSFT working with a third party?

  2. todd says:
    October 29th, 2006

    Ummm…let me guess, swamp thing owns lots and lots of NEOM that is WAY underwater.

  3. Adam says:
    October 29th, 2006

    Neom is still the best way to go

  4. Grant says:
    October 29th, 2006

    Having seen the advertising potential in Japan first hand - I really hope that this catches on in North America.
    With added features such as MP3 players, cameras etc - why don’t the cell phone providers insist on this technology - is it just ignorance?

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