A QR code is a type of two‑dimensional barcode made of black and white squares that can store data such as website links, text, or numbers in a small square image. It was invented in 1994 by the Japanese company Denso Wave and “QR” stands for “Quick Response.”

What a QR code is

• A QR code is a matrix (2D) barcode that can be read from multiple directions, unlike traditional 1D barcodes that are read in only one direction.

• The pattern of squares encodes data using standardized modes such as numeric, alphanumeric, binary, or kanji characters.

How it works when you scan

• A camera (for example, your phone) takes a picture of the QR code, and decoding software first finds the three large “finder” squares in the corners to locate and align the code.

• The software then reads the grid of small black and white squares, interprets them as binary data, uses built‑in error‑correction to fix small damage or dirt, and finally converts the data into something usable like opening a URL or showing text.

Why QR codes are useful

• Because they store data in two dimensions, QR codes can hold much more information than a typical product barcode and can still be read quickly even at small sizes.

• This makes them popular for things like payment links, app downloads, tickets, menus, and product tracking, where a fast scan connects you directly to digital information.