Circular QR Code: Best 13 Applications and More

If you have seen a QR Code, chances are that it would be square in shape.

Since their inception, QR Codes have been square-shaped. While they still serve the purpose, people, especially marketers would want to experiment.

Enter circular QR Code.

This QR Code looks more enthusing and something ‘new’ to people. Hence, marketers are now exploring more such features that make their QR Codes attractive enough for the audience to scan.

Let’s know more about them and how they can be used.

A. What is a circular QR Code

Circular QR Codes are a type of Quick Response (QR) Code with a circular or rounded shape.

They are essentially QR Codes with rounded edges, giving them a unique visual appearance compared to the standard square ones. 

Traditional QR Codes are typically square to ensure accuracy and reliability when scanning. Whereas, circular QR Codes are designed for aesthetic purposes or branding considerations. 

They can be used in various applications where the traditional square shape might not fit well.

B. How to create a circular QR Code

1. Start by accessing the Scanova QR Code Generator online
   
2. Opt for a relevant content category of your preference. As an example, let’s select the “Website URL” option from the menu and enter the desired URL. This URL will be the destination when the QR Code is scanned
   
3. Choose between a “static” or “dynamic” QR Code. The default selection is the dynamic option
   
4. Commence the QR Code generation process by clicking the “Generate QR Code” button. This action will create a basic black-and-white QR Code linked to your website
   
5.  Next, locate the “Edit Design” button beneath the QR Code on the right and click on it. You will be presented with two design choices; opt for the “Custom Logo” option
   
6. On the displayed screen, you will find various tabs for adding a logo, editing eyes, Data, and background. Among these options, you will also see the “Frame” option
   
7.  Select your preferred circular frame design from either the “Suggested” or “All” options based on your preference
   
8. After completing all other design modifications, proceed to the next step
   
9. Ensure the functionality of your QR Code. Before downloading and using the QR Code, test it using various devices and QR Code scanning applications. This step ensures that it works correctly and directs users to the intended URL accurately
   
10. Obtain your QR Code by downloading it. Scanova offers the flexibility to download your QR Code in multiple formats suitable for both print and digital applications
    
11.  You are now ready to incorporate your QR Code into your marketing materials. Position it prominently where it can be easily noticed and scanned by your target audience

C. Benefits of circular QR Codes

While circular QR Codes might not be as common, they can offer several benefits. Here are some potential advantages of using circular QR Codes:

1. Aesthetic appeal

Circular QR Codes can enhance the visual appeal of marketing materials, products, and designs. 

They stand out from the standard square QR Codes and can be integrated more seamlessly into branding efforts.

2. Brand differentiation

Circular QR Codes can help brands differentiate themselves by using a unique design element. This can contribute to brand recognition and memorability.

Learn all about how to design a QR Code

3. Design flexibility

Circular QR Codes offer more creative freedom in terms of incorporating them into various designs and layouts. They can be placed on curved surfaces or integrated into circular logos without disrupting the design’s flow.

4. Artistic and creative projects

Circular QR Codes can be used in artistic and creative projects. They can be integrated into artworks, installations, or multimedia presentations.

5. Luxury and high-end branding

For luxury or high-end brands, circular QR Codes can convey a sense of exclusivity and sophistication. They can be seen as a premium design element that resonates with the brand’s identity.

6. Event marketing

Circular QR Codes can be used in event marketing, such as on event posters, tickets, or promotional materials. Their unique shape can attract attention and encourage attendees to scan them for more information.

7. Product packaging

Circular QR Codes can be integrated into product packaging more seamlessly. This allows brands to provide additional information or engage customers directly from the packaging.

8. Customization

The central area of a circular QR Code can be customized with branding elements. They will still retain the scanning functionality in the surrounding area.

9. Social media and online content

Circular QR Codes can be used in digital contexts, such as on websites or social media. They can offer a visually engaging way to link users to online content or promotions.

10. Niche marketing

In specific industries or markets, circular QR Codes can serve as a distinguishing feature that caters to a particular audience’s preferences.

D. Applications of circular QR Code

Circular QR Codes can find applications in various industries and contexts. Here are some potential applications of circular QR Codes:

1. Product packaging and labels

Circular QR Codes can be integrated into product packaging, labels, and tags. 

They will enhance the visual appeal and provide a convenient way for customers to access product information and more.

2. Marketing and advertising

Circular QR Codes can be used in marketing campaigns, advertisements, and promotional materials. They can direct users to specific landing pages, videos, or online content related to the campaign.

3. Event promotion

Circular QR Codes can be used on event posters, flyers, and tickets to provide event details and more.

4. Business cards

Integrating circular QR Codes into business cards is a modern and tech-savvy way. Individuals can share their contact information or link to their professional profiles.

5. Art and creative projects

In the world of art and design, circular QR Codes can be integrated into artworks. They can also be used on installations, or creative projects to provide interactive elements.

6. Luxury and high-end brands

High-end brands can use circular QR Codes to maintain their aesthetic appeal. It also helps them reinforce their premium image while still offering digital engagement.

7. Interactive signage

Circular QR Codes on signage, banners, or displays can provide more information about exhibits, tourist attractions, or historical sites.

8. Restaurant menus and food packaging

Restaurants can use circular QR Codes to link customers to digital menus and more.

9. Educational materials

Circular QR Codes can be used in educational materials like textbooks or interactive learning resources. They can provide students with supplementary content, references, or study guides.

10. Real estate and property listings

Circular QR Codes can be used in property listings to provide virtual tours, floor plans, and additional property details.

11. Fashion and apparel

Circular QR Codes can be integrated into fashion products or clothing tags. It can provide styling tips, care instructions, and links to related products.

12. Social media integration

Brands can use circular QR Codes to direct users to their social media profiles. This will encourage engagement and increase their online presence.

13. Healthcare and medical information

 In healthcare, these QR Codes could provide patients with access to medical records, appointment scheduling, or prescription information.

E. Best practices for circular QR Codes

Improving user experience with QR Codes requires an attractive design and smooth, intuitive functionality.

Here are some strategies to enhance user experience with QR Codes:

1. Clear design integration

Integrate the QR Code seamlessly into the design of the material, whether it’s packaging, posters, or digital content. 

Make sure the QR Code doesn’t disrupt the overall aesthetic but complements it.

2. Visual contrasts

Ensure there’s enough contrast between the QR Code and its background to make it easily recognizable and scannable. 

A clear contrast helps QR Code scanning apps distinguish between the code and the surroundings.

3. Testing scanability

Thoroughly test the scannability of the QR Code using various QR Code scanning apps and devices. Make sure it’s scannable from different angles and distances.

4. Branding integration

Incorporate branding elements, logos, or colors within the circular area of the QR Code. This helps reinforce your brand identity while still maintaining scanability.

5. Educational prompts

These QR Codes might not be commonly recognized. Include a small text or graphic prompt near the QR Code to inform users that it’s scannable and how to use it.

6. Mobile responsiveness

Ensure that the linked content is mobile-responsive. This will provide a smooth experience for users who access it via smartphones.

7. Value-added content

Link the QR Code to valuable content that enhances the user experience.

F. Future trends and innovations

Here are some possible future trends and innovations related to circular QR Codes:

1. Standardization and compatibility

As these QR Codes gain popularity, there could be efforts to standardize their design and encoding methods.

This would make it easier for users to scan circular QR Codes reliably.

2. Advanced QR code readers

QR Code scanning apps and devices could evolve to better handle non-standard QR Code shapes. 

Advanced image recognition algorithms might be developed to accurately scan circular QR Codes from different angles and distances.

3. Augmented reality integration

These QR Codes could be integrated into augmented reality (AR) experiences. Users could scan a circular QR Code to trigger immersive AR content or animations.

4. Dynamic and customizable content

These QR Codes might lead to the integration of dynamic content. Marketers could change the linked content over time, allowing for real-time updates, promotions, or seasonal campaigns.

5. Interactive branding

Brands might use circular QR Codes as interactive branding elements. Scanning the QR Code could lead to personalized experiences, loyalty programs, or exclusive offers.

6. Biometric integration

With advancements in biometric technology, circular QR Codes could incorporate biometric authentication. Users might need to scan their fingerprints or use facial recognition to access linked content securely.

7. Wearable technology integration

These QR Codes could find a place in wearable technology. Users might scan QR Codes on smartwatches or other wearables to quickly access information on their connected devices.

G. FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to circular QR Codes:

1. What is a circular QR Code?

It is a type of QR Code with a rounded or circular shape, deviating from the traditional square or rectangular design. 

It is designed for aesthetic purposes or branding considerations, while still maintaining its scanability.

2. How do I create a circular QR Code?

Creating QR Codes such as a circular one involves customizing the design of a traditional QR Code to have a circular shape. 

Scanova QR Code generator helps you do this. Ensure that the QR Code remains scannable and follows design best practices.

3. Are circular QR Codes scannable from any angle?

Circular QR Codes can be slightly less forgiving when it comes to scanning angles compared to traditional square QR Codes. 

Thorough testing is needed to ensure they remain scannable from various angles and distances.

4. Can any QR Code reader scan circular QR Codes?

Not all QR Code readers are optimized for scanning these QR Codes.

While many modern QR Code scanning apps can handle them, testing across different apps and devices is essential to ensure compatibility.

5. What content can be encoded in a circular QR Code?

Similar to traditional QR Codes, these QR Codes can encode various types of information. These include URLs, text, contact details, or links to multimedia content like videos or images.

6. How do I ensure the contrast for scanability in circular QR Codes?

Maintain a clear contrast between the QR Code and its background. Using dark modules on a light background, or vice versa, helps ensure that the code is easily distinguishable for scanning.

7. Can I customize the design of a circular QR Code?

Yes, these QR Codes can be customized with branding elements, logos, and colors within the circular area. However, ensure that customization doesn’t compromise the QR Code’s scannability.

8. Are circular QR Codes more aesthetically pleasing?

These QR Codes are often considered more visually appealing. They can enhance the overall design of materials like packaging, posters, and marketing materials.

Summing Up

In a world where design and functionality converge, unique QR Codes emerge as a captivating innovation. 

These rounded QR Codes offer a fresh take on the traditional square QR Codes. This helps open up new avenues for creativity and branding. 

If you’re still reading, you’ve learned everything about circular QR Code. If you have any questions, let us know in the comments.