Label QR Codes
We have previously discussed why Quick Response codes (QR Codes) are important and how they’re competing with eco-labels for attention, but they have new competition: NFC tags. But in order to understand why this battle of technology is important, it’s crucial to know what NFC tags are.
According to Kimtag, “NFC (near field communication) is a wireless technology which allows for the transfer of data such as text or numbers between two NFC enabled devices. NFC tags, for example stickers or wristbands, contain small microchips with little aerials which can store a small amount of information for transfer to another NFC device, such as a mobile phone.” This still begs the question, how are NFC tags competing with the already-established QR Codes?
As we have stated before, “… part of what makes them so effective is the ability to link the Web to your company’s product, while keeping your customers engaged. This engagement pays off in dividends because it will keep your customers interested in what your company has to offer.”
But NFC tags can do the same, and in many cases more. A Print Impressions article discusses the pros and cons of both NFC tags and QR Codes. The article states, “Before [they] ever became established in the United States, they fell from people’s favor. (Although, I believe this was due more to poor underlying marketing strategies, and not the technology.) Because of this and also due to Google’s support of it, NFC seems to be the fan favorite.”
And while it may seem that NFC has an advantage over QR Codes, it’s not much of one. First, it’s more expensive to make an NFC tag versus creating a QR Code, which can be made for little or no cost whatsoever. Also, they have a versatility that NFC tags do not. Quick Response codes can be printed on nearly any surface. This includes product and brand labels, the products themselves or the product packaging.
As it stands right now, NFC is the up-and-coming technology, but QR Codes still have the upper hand and their benefit cannot be understated. It is possible over time that NFC tags will begin to take control over QR Codes, but currently, they don’t stand a chance.
Whitlam Group believes in the importance of QR Codes and we have the ability to improve your business’ customer engagement by adding them to your products’ labels. Please contact us if you have any questions about the benefits of Quick Response Codes.