Back in 1994, QR Codes were another barcode constructed by Denso Wave to track auto parts.
Fast forward to the present, and they’re ubiquitous. Marketing, payment, augmented reality, you get the idea.
What began as a warehouse tool has become a business powerhouse. This has fueled engagement and automation.
And let’s face it: the pandemic did more than fuel QR Code uptake. It made them essential for contactless interactions.
And new QR Code technology isn’t just valuable but vital to the digital landscape.
A. Next-gen QR Codes: What’s new?
QR Codes used to be nothing more than black-and-white squares.
They are now interactive, secure, and dynamic.
Let us talk about the innovations and how companies are implementing them.
1. Dynamic QR Codes for real-time updates
Static QR Codes cannot be updated once made. They contrast dynamic QR Codes that enable altering the destination URL without printing out a new code.
Implementing time-sensitive offers, events, or product releases profoundly affects brands’ operations.
For example, McDonald’s implements dynamic QR Codes on packaging. It is done to offer live updates on limited meal deals, loyalty schemes, and voucher coupons.
Emirates and Singapore Airlines place them in e-tickets. This makes it easier for passengers to scan and receive live flight status messages, gate alerts, and boarding procedures.
Besides, sports leagues and concert promoters such as the NBA utilize them on event tickets.
They alter seating assignments, indicate last-minute scheduling changes, or offer unique behind-the-scenes material to patrons.
That obliterates reprints and enables firms to respond fast to alterations.
2. Enhanced security with blockchain and encryption
As phishing scams, in addition to fake goods, increase, QR Code security gains importance.
Blockchain QR Codes feature manipulation protection. Plus, they ensure the codes users scan are authentic and unedited.
Gucci and Louis Vuitton are some high-end brands that put blockchain QR Codes on purses besides extras to combat fakery. Buyers check that products are real before a purchase.
Pfizer, like other drug companies, adds QR Codes to drug packaging. The codes connect to blockchain documents.
It shows where items came from, who built them, and when they expired.
In banking, Paytm in India and DBS Bank in Singapore add secure QR Codes to payment setups. They stop scam transactions because each scan undergoes secure checks before payments happen.
3. Augmented reality (AR) integration for immersive experiences
AR-augmented QR Codes strengthen customer involvement. They do so by putting computer-generated stuff on top of real-world things.
This creates experiences that involve people besides holding their attention. This is suitable for stores’ real estate next to schools.
For example, Nike puts QR Codes on their sneaker boxes, which can be used for AR. When a person scans them, they can see a complete hologram of the shoe.
They can look at adjustments to a size chart and what famous people say about it.
With AR, IKEA’s catalogs allow people to picture how the furniture looks. This helps in their purchase decisions.
4. Custom-designed QR Codes for branding and engagement
Regular black-and-white QR Codes work well but may be aesthetically unappealing.
Nowadays, firms personalize QR Codes using corporate colors, logos, and design. This adds to the visual appeal while enhancing brand promotion.
Spotify’s “Scannable Codes” are an excellent case in point. Users can scan a song’s QR Code and instantly play the music within the app.
L’Oréal uses custom QR Codes on makeup packaging. These codes take customers to tutorial videos. In the videos, customers see how to use the makeup they bought.
Burger King and Starbucks also use branded QR Codes. But these codes are part of their loyalty schemes.
For example, customers scan codes on receipts or cups. Scanning earns them points, and they use these points for special rewards.
This makes the customer experience game-like, keeping the users interested.
5. Multi-function QR Codes for smart engagement
Modern QR Codes can cause several different things to happen in one go.
They can be designed to start a call or send an email. Also, they can open an application, execute a payment, or even authenticate identity.
Zomato and Swiggy, India’s top food ordering platforms, use multi-purpose QR Codes in restaurants.
Scanning the code by diners shows the menu and enables them to order.
It also offers a payment option and even enables them to give a review.
In the hotel industry, Marriott Hotels now feature QR Codes in guest rooms.
It enables customers to manage room lighting, adjust the thermostat, and more.
6. AI-driven QR Code analytics for smarter marketing
Businesses leverage AI-powered QR Codes to track user behavior and measure engagement.
For example, Walmart uses QR Codes at self-scanning checkouts to scan patterns.
Fashion retailers like Zara and H&M track what in-store QR Codes most often get checked. This helps them know what items are taking off and generating sales.
Madison Square Garden and the FIFA World Cup are using QR analytics to track the number of visitors.
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B. Smart QR Codes: AI and blockchain integration
QR Codes have come far from simple black-and-white squares for storing URLs.
AI plus blockchain integration transformed them into strong digital assets.
This transformation made secure transactions and customer experiences tailored to individual needs.
For example, retail, healthcare, and finance businesses use these intelligent QR Codes. They improve their work besides growing user involvement.
1. AI-powered QR Codes for smart engagement
AI-powered QR Codes go beyond simple redirections. They analyze user behavior, personalize experiences, and detect fraud, helping brands improve customer engagement and marketing effectiveness.
a. Predictive analytics for smarter marketing
Brands now use AI to track and analyze scanning patterns to refine marketing strategies.
Unilever and Domino’s, among other companies, employ AI-driven QR Codes on packaging.
This is done to monitor the best-promoting offerings by altering offerings in real time.
b. Hyper-personalized customer journeys
AI-driven QR Codes can customize landing pages based on a user’s past interactions.
Netflix uses QR Codes on smart TVs to let users sign in seamlessly.
Walmart integrates AI into its in-store QR Codes to recommend personalized products.
c. AI for fraud detection in financial transactions
QR Codes are vulnerable to scams, but AI-powered fraud detection is helping brands stay ahead.
PayPal and Venmo now analyze scan data in real-time to detect suspicious transaction patterns, preventing fraud before it happens.
Mastercard’s AI-powered QR payments block unauthorized scans by verifying user behavior before processing transactions.
2. Blockchain-backed QR Codes for security and transparency
Blockchain-enabled QR Codes deliver secure, tamper-proof authentication. It is highly suitable for supply chain traceability, identity authentication, and safe payments.
a. Tamper-proof authentication for digital IDs
Governments across the globe are implementing blockchain QR Codes for digital identification.
Estonia uses blockchain-enabled QR Codes for national IDs. This allows people to authenticate independently of centralized databases.
b. Supply chain transparency to combat fake products
Counterfeit goods are a $500 billion global problem. Blockchain QR Codes offer a solution.
Nike and L’Oréal use blockchain-backed QR Codes. Customers can scan and verify a product’s authenticity before purchasing.
Nestlé allows consumers to track the origin of their coffee beans by scanning a QR Code.
c. Secure payments and crypto transactions
Cryptocurrency adoption is increasing, and blockchain-powered QR Codes make transactions seamless.
Tesla and Gucci accept Bitcoin payments via blockchain QR Codes. This ensures tamper-proof and instant transactions.
Starbucks’ blockchain-backed QR payment system allows customers to load and spend crypto.
3. AI-enhanced QR Code analytics for data-driven decisions
AI-powered QR analytics help businesses track engagement, optimize campaigns, and improve marketing performance.
a. Real-time consumer behavior tracking
Retailers like Target and Adidas track QR Code scans to analyze which products or offers attract the most attention.
This helps brands place best-selling items in prime locations or adjust pricing dynamically.
b. Automated retargeting for higher conversions
AI-driven QR Codes retarget users with customized advertisements based on their previous engagement.
McDonald’s and KFC utilize AI-powered QR Codes in their loyalty programs. They retarget users with exclusive offers for their best-loved meals.
Apple does the same by embedding QR Codes in email campaigns. It redirects users to exclusive discounts based on browsing history.
c. Heatmaps & user flow tracking for smarter store layouts
Event organizers and retail brands use QR-based heatmaps to track consumer movement.
At Comic-Con, QR scans help event planners understand which booths attract the most visitors.
IKEA uses QR Codes to track how customers navigate their stores and adjust layouts accordingly.
4. Smart QR Codes for authentication and anti-counterfeiting
Brands are turning to blockchain and AI to prevent fraud and counterfeiting.
a. Encrypted QR Codes for financial security
Financial institutions like HSBC and Citibank use AI-encrypted QRs to ensure safe transactions.
These QR Codes dynamically change after each scan, preventing reuse or duplication.
b. Product verification to prevent counterfeiting
Counterfeiting is a major issue in luxury goods, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
Chanel and Rolex use blockchain-verified QRs on the packaging.
Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson embed QR Codes in medicine packaging.
This allows hospitals to verify drug authenticity before administering them to patients.
c. Secure access control for workplaces and events
AI-powered QR Codes are replacing traditional access cards in workplaces. Google and Meta now use biometric-linked QR Codes to grant secure office access.
Coachella and FIFA World Cup have implemented blockchain-based QR tickets. This prevents reselling or duplication.
5. Decentralized identity and digital credentials
Blockchain-enabled QR Codes assist users in gaining control of their credentials, decreasing dependence upon centralized databases.
a. Self-sovereign identity (SSI) for digital authentication
Countries like Japan and India are testing SSI-based QR Codes for national IDs. This allows citizens to store and control their identification without government reliance.
b. Education & certification validation
Universities like MIT and Stanford issue blockchain-backed QR Codes on digital diplomas.
This allows employers to verify a candidate’s qualifications instantly.
Google Cloud certifications now feature blockchain-enabled QR Codes to prevent fake credentials.
c. Healthcare data security with QR Codes
The Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, among other hospitals, employ blockchain-enabled QR Codes.
This is done to access and share the patient’s medical history safely. It also facilitates efficient doctor consultation while safeguarding confidential data.
6. AI + blockchain for smart contracts and payments
The combination of AI and blockchain-powered QR Codes is streamlining financial transactions.
It also helps contract execution and loyalty programs.
a. Automated transactions with smart contracts
Blockchain-powered QR Codes trigger smart contracts for various industries.
Dubai’s real estate sector now uses smart contract-enabled QR Codes. This helps automate property purchases, removing the need for intermediaries.
b. Crypto payments & microtransactions
Retailers such as Shopify and Whole Foods already offer Bitcoin and Ethereum payments through QRCodes.
Gaming firms like Ubisoft and Epic Games utilize QR-driven smart contracts in-game.
c. Loyalty rewards and gamification
Brands like Nike and Sephora utilize AI-powered QR Codes to monitor user interaction and deliver customized loyalty rewards. Coca-Cola introduced a QR-based rewards program in which users scan product QR Codes to collect points redeemable for rewards.
C. 3D and printed electronics QR Codes
1. 3D Printed QR Codes: Function meets form
3D printing (additive manufacturing) enables companies to print embossed, engraved, or raised QR Codes on goods, packaging, and infrastructure.
Unlike traditionally printed QR Codes, 3D QR Codes don’t get faded, smudged, or degraded over time.
Let’s look at their real-world applications:
a. Luxury goods & jewelry authentication
Louis Vuitton and Rolex are putting 3D QR Codes within watches, handbags, and accessories.
Customers can scan and validate provenance information through a blockchain-based authentication system.
b. Automotive & industrial manufacturing
Tesla and BMW have begun applying 3D-engraved QR Codes on engine parts and spare parts.
This is done to monitor manufacturing information and keep counterfeit parts out of the supply chain.
It is also useful for maintenance tracking—technicians can scan the QR Code to access the part’s service history.
c. Infrastructure & construction
Smart cities such as Dubai are incorporating 3D-printed QR Codes on construction materials, road signs, and monuments.
This is done to provide digital guides, maintenance records, and historical information for tourists and city planners.
d. Medical implants & prosthetics
Johnson & Johnson and Medtronic are developing QR-coded medical implants.
The surgeons can scan the embedded QR Code on a prosthetic or implant.
This is done to gain access to patient-specific calibration settings and previous surgical history.
2. Printed electronics QR Codes: Enabling QR Codes to be smarter
Printed electronics employ conductive inks and flexible circuits to combine QR Codes with intelligent features like:
✅ Integration of NFC (Near Field Communication) and RFID
✅ Interactive lighting that responds to user interaction
✅ Real-time tracking with onboard sensors
Let’s look at their applications:
a. Intelligent packaging for food & pharma
Nestlé and Pfizer are placing intelligent QR Codes with built-in temperature sensors on the packaging.
These QRs turn color or send notifications when the product suffers from dangerous temperature variations.
The customers can determine if their food or drug is still fresh.
b. Wearable tech & fashion
Nike and Adidas have launched QR-coded smart sneakers.
The users can scan to access exclusive digital content, training plans, and authentication records for limited-edition shoes.
Levi’s has experimented with QR-Coded smart jackets that connect to smartphones via conductive ink technology.
c. IoT & smart homes
Amazon and Samsung are embedding printed electronic QR Codes in home appliances.
Consumers can scan a QR on a smart refrigerator or washing machine.
This will help them to view real-time diagnostics and maintenance advice.
d. Concerts & events
Coachella and FIFA are piloting interactive LED QR Codes on ticketing and merchandise.
Fans scanning these QR Codes can access behind-the-scenes material, VIP experiences, and live-stream highlights.
3. Combining 3D printing and printed electronics: The future of QR Codes
The breakthrough occurs when 3D printing is combined with printed electronics. This enables QR Codes to be physically embedded and digitally interactive.
a. Retail & loyalty programs
Starbucks and Sephora are piloting 3D-printed loyalty QR Codes on reusable mugs and membership cards.
These interactive QR Codes retain user preferences, provide real-time rewards, and even dynamically alter promotions.
b. Gaming & augmented reality (AR)
Sony PlayStation and Call of Duty are creating interactive 3D QR Codes on gaming peripherals.
Scanning them reveals special in-game content, AR filters, and downloadable content (DLC).
c. Smart vehicles & EV charging
Porsche and Audi are incorporating QR Codes with printed circuits in electric vehicle charging stations.
Scanning the QR Codes gives users real-time charging status, payment opportunities, and availability of nearby stations.
When providing consumers with more information about products, the major UK supermarkets — including Tesco, Morrisons, and Ocado — are already trialing QR Codes on items such as milk and water bottles. Source: forbes
D. Interactive QR Codes: AR, VR, and gamification
1. Augmented reality (AR) QR Codes: Bringing digital to life
One can scan a code with AR QR Codes to view or overlay digital content onto the physical environment.
Technology revolutionizes retail, real estate, and entertainment by enriching consumers’ experiences.
This is done with virtual try-ons, interactive product demonstrations, and storytelling.
Hyper-affluent experience luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton integrate AR QR Codes into physical retail environments and virtual catalogs.
They enable customers to wear clip-on virtual jewelry via a QR Code, look at 360-degree imagery of bags, or view original behind-the-scenes photography from fashion advertising campaigns.
For example, with Tesla and BMW, the automotive industry integrates AR QR Codes in brochures and online advertisements.
Future customers can see a 3D representation of a car model.
They can also browse through customization options and even take a virtual test drive directly from their mobile phones.
Even cultural museums and institutions are now implementing AR QR Codes.
Both The Louvre and the Smithsonian Museum have QR Codes alongside artifacts, which the public can scan to see AR reconstruction of ancient sites or interactive histories of artifacts.
2. Virtual reality (VR) QR Codes: Transporting users to new worlds
VR-powered QR Codes directly open up immersive experiences, skipping apps.
Technology is changing how people travel, learn, and demonstrate products.
Marriott Hotels provides VR QR Codes that help users explore virtual hotel rooms and locations. This is done before booking a trip.
Similarly, Expedia and Airbnb include VR previews and their listings. Shoppers can view their properties virtually.
E-learning platforms and universities such as Harvard and MIT are integrating VR QR Codes into their curriculum.
Students can scan a code to enter a virtual chemistry lab, tour ancient civilizations in history class, or practice surgical procedures in medical school.
QR Codes are gaining popularity, as Google has introduced an option for users to sign in and verify themselves by scanning them. Source: thehindu
E. The rise of invisible QR Codes
QR Codes are no longer in the physical space.
Invisible QR Codes are a future possibility for security, authentication, and brand identification. This is done through nanotechnology, UV printing, and infrared ink.
The naked eye cannot detect invisible QR Codes, but UV light, infrared cameras, or unique mobile apps can read them.
Their unfettered use of products, packages, and documents makes them an industry game-changer.
This is true for firms requiring anti-counterfeiting, covert authentication, and minimal branding.
1. How invisible QR Codes Work
Unlike standard black-and-white QR Codes, invisible QR Codes use advanced printing and material science technologies to hide data.
Here’s how:
a. UV and infrared Ink
Invisible QR Codes are printed using UV-reactive or infrared-reactive ink. They remain invisible under normal light conditions.
For example, high-end cosmetics and wine labels use UV QR Codes on packaging.
This is done so that retailers and inspectors can verify authenticity at a glance.
b. Nanoparticles and watermarking
A few QR Codes cannot be seen contain nanoparticles and micro watermarks.
It is blended onto product surfaces, ensuring they will not influence looks.
Drug makers like Pfizer and AstraZeneca encode these into medicine packages to track authenticity and avoid fake medicines entering supply streams.
c. Microlens and holographic technology
This next-gen method embeds QR Codes within holograms or images, rendering them invisible until scanned.
Watchmakers Rolex and Omega implant microlens QR Codes onto their guarantee cards. This provides hidden but verifiable evidence of legitimacy.
2. Applications of invisible QR Codes
a. Product authentication & anti-counterfeiting
Invisible QR Codes add a layer of protection against counterfeiting, which is a global $500 billion issue. They help to keep products authentic and traceable.
Companies like Apple and Samsung embed secret QR Codes within smartphone parts. This is done to combat counterfeit parts and unlicensed repairs.
Louis Vuitton and Prada place UV QR Codes on the tags and packing of their handbags.
This is done to make it easy for customers and sellers to authenticate products.
Wine and spirits businesses such as Moët & Chandon and Johnnie Walker embed UV QR Codes in bottle caps and labels.
It becomes easy to authenticate originality and ensure against counterfeit liquor sales.
b. High-security identification & access control
Governments and banks are implementing invisible QR Codes to secure confidential documents.
Passports and National IDs: Japan and Estonia have made invisible QR Codes a part of passports.
It stores encrypted and biometric travel details for effortless validation at border points.
Bank Cards and Financial Documents: HSBC and Visa integrate infrared QR Codes onto credit cards for secure payment and fraud checking.
Secure Entry Systems: Invisible QR Codes are used by Google and Microsoft for employee access badges, restricting only authorized individuals from scanning and entering.
c. Minimalist branding & high-tech packaging
Companies employ invisible QR Codes to keep packaging more clean and appealing while still being able to provide interactive digital experiences.
Apple has reportedly tested invisible QR Codes on AirPods and iPhone boxes.
This enables users to scan for product registration, warranty activation, and setup instructions.
Chanel Dior and the like have secret QR Codes on perfume bottles and labels.
Customers can access super cool content, styling guides, and instructions on caring for their clothes.
d. Museum & art protection
Invisible QR Codes are revolutionizing art preservation and provenance tracking, guaranteeing historical accuracy and theft protection.
The Met and The British Museum insert covert QR Codes in artwork and sculptures.
The curator can scan and view in-depth provenance documents without leaving visible signs on valuable works of art.
Sotheby’s and Christie’s auction houses apply UV QR Codes to certificates of authenticity.
Collectors can securely track an artwork’s ownership history.
Street artists like Banksy have used invisible QR Codes within their murals to provide covert messages and virtual experiences to finders.
3. Why invisible QR Codes are the future
a. Better security & anti-fraud measures
Invisible QR Codes provide an unsuspected level of security, greatly limiting counterfeiting for con artists.
Luxury goods, electronics, and finance businesses increasingly embrace them.
This is done to maintain product authenticity and safe transactions.
b. Seamless integration & aesthetic appeal
Unlike traditional QR Codes, which can disrupt design-focused branding, invisible QR Codes blend into products and packaging.
This makes them ideal for high-end brands, where design and discretion matter.
c. Exclusive access & digital interactivity
Invisible QR Codes are applied to VIP access, concealed content, and premium digital experiences.
High-end clubs, exclusive fashion brands, and premium services utilize them to unlock special content, customized offers, and exclusive experiences for privileged customers.
Over 2.3 billion QR Code coupons are expected to be redeemed by 2025. Source: electroiq
F. Sustainable QR Codes: Eco-friendly and biodegradable printing
Businesses going green to reduce their environmental impact are changing QR Codes.
The traditional way of printing QR Codes requires plastic, paper, and chemical inks; however, new technologies allow businesses to use digital, recyclable, biodegradable, and eco-friendly materials.
Green QR Codes are helping businesses decrease waste, shrink their carbon footprint, and enhance green branding efforts.
1. Biodegradable QR Codes: Printed on sustainable materials
More and more brands are now printing QR Codes on organic and renewable materials.
They can be disposed of and reused in an eco-friendly manner. Some popular choices are:
a. Seed paper QR Codes
This special paper contains seeds so that users can scan the QR Code and then plant it later.
They are typically used for event tickets, business cards, and promotional flyers. Seed paper QR Codes assist in compensating paper waste with greenery growth.
b. Recycled cardboard & craft paper QR Codes
Rather than using conventional glossy materials, businesses now print QR Codes on recyclable cardboard and kraft paper.
This minimizes environmental waste while ensuring print quality and durability. Several e-commerce businesses and food packaging firms have been doing this.
c. Wood & bamboo QR Codes
Long-lasting and renewable, laser-engraved QR Codes on wood or bamboo are sustainable signs that last.
Employed by hotels, restaurants, and artisanal brands, QR Codes have a plastic-free option for product labeling and marketing.
These biodegradable resources ensure that QR Codes are functional and mitigate environmental pressure.
This makes them suitable for packaging, ticketing, and green marketing.
2. Water-based & soy ink QR Codes: A greener alternative
Traditionally, printing QR Codes uses petroleum-based inks, which emit toxic chemicals and do not recycle well. As a measure against this, companies are turning to:
a. Water-based inks
These non-toxic and biodegradable inks do not contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), preventing air pollution and making it easier to recycle QR Codes.
b. Soy-based inks
Made from natural soybeans, these inks use less energy to make and break down quicker than regular inks. Brands committed to sustainable packaging, books, and newspapers use them.
c. Algae ink
Some pioneers are looking into algae-based ink for QR Code printing, providing a fully carbon-neutral alternative.
By going eco-friendly inks, companies cut pollution, enhance recyclability, and preserve print quality while reducing their carbon footprint.
3. Digital-only QR Codes: Zero paper waste
Certain companies are entirely doing away with physical QR Code printing, using paperless, screen-based solutions. These are:
a. Digital QR Codes on screens
Restaurants, shopping malls, and event promoters are substituting printed menus, brochures, and tickets with QR Codes.
They are displayed on LED screens, kiosks, and POS terminals, removing paper waste.
b. Laser-engraved QR Codes
Permanent and zero-waste QR Codes are etched on metal, glass, or wood and are well-suited for luxury packaging, trophies, and signage.
Hotels and resorts apply them to room keys and furniture for contactless services.
c. AR-enabled QR Codes
Augmented reality (AR) QR Codes aren’t even necessary to print.
Consumers can scan a virtual AR marker that puts a QR Code on real items. This delivers an interactive, zero-waste experience.
4. Sustainable QR Code packaging: Waste reduction
Green brands are incorporating QR Codes in sustainable packaging that is more environmentally friendly by removing excess material and encouraging recycling. Major uses are:
a. Paperless product information
Rather than printing user manuals or ingredient labels, QR Codes lead customers to digital product guides, tutorials, and user manuals. This conserves paper while providing more comprehensive content.
b. Digital receipts & warranties
Manufacturers and retailers employ QR Codes for electronic receipts and warranty registrations. This minimizes thermal paper waste from printed receipts.
Companies like Apple and Samsung have already implemented digital receipts in their outlets.
c. Recycling instructions & carbon footprint data
Some brands place QR Codes on packaging that point to sustainability reports, recycling instructions, and carbon footprint calculators.
This informs customers about proper disposal practices.
For instance, Nike’s Move to Zero initiative features QR Codes on packaging. It assists users in finding recycling centers for retired shoes and clothes.
QR Code use is expected to keep growing, with Juniper Research forecasting that over 2.2 billion people will use QR Codes by 2025. Source: electroiq
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Conclusion
QR Codes have evolved from simple tracking tools to intelligent, secure, and interactive assets.
With AI-driven personalization, blockchain security, and dynamic features, they power seamless marketing, payments, and authentication.
QR Codes will remain essential for engagement and digital transformation as businesses innovate.
One thing’s sure: they’re not just here to stay; they’re getting smarter.