What are 2D bar-codes 2D barcodes are a way to encode information, just like conventional barcodes – but 2D barcodes can encode significantly more. This information can be read by devices with cameras, such as cellphones.
For example, the 2D barcode shown here contains the information "www.google.com." When you capture a picture of it with your cellphone, special decoding software reads the encoded information, and, in this case, prompts your phone's browser to visit a URL.
2D barcodes have been common in Japan for a number of years. In fact, Japanese business cards often feature barcodes containing contact information. Such barcodes are starting to gain popularity in other countries as well.
What is Sprint doing with 2D bar codes?
Sprint already has a number of devices that are 2-D ready! I would imagine that they might include Instinct in the list at some point (this is just a guess, nothing from Sprint at the moment).
Sprint users with compatible phones can get the ScanLife software by texting the word "Scan" to 70734 and choosing install.
Here is the home page of ScanLife where you can create your own EZcodes:
3 comments:
Too bad this doesn't work with Instinct.
This is a new technology. I guess it will become popular over time. Imagine going to a store and scanning the product with your phone and it will take you to that product's home page on your phone browser! I guess it still has some ways to go.
It should be noted that:
Scanbuy’s indirect resolution process, which they use for their proprietary EZcode, is infringing on NeoMedia Technologies’ core patents.
Indirect encoding (patented by NeoMedia) is the process of linking the target information to an index (364528 for example) and putting that unique identifier into a 1D UPC/EAN or 2D barcode. The code reader on the mobile phone reads the barcode and sends the code data over the Internet to a central resolution server that will tell the mobile phone what action is associated with the index, i.e. access a URL, download media, initiate a phone call, ect.
NeoMedia Technologies has a suite of twelve issued patents covering the core concepts behind linking the physical world to the electronic world dating back to 1995. These patents cover various linkage methods including: Barcodes, RFID, Mag Stripe, Voice, and Other machine readable and keyed entry identifiers.
http://neom.com/13.html
NeoMedia brought suit against Scanbuy for patent infringement. Litigation has been ongoing.
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