Can a phone be used as a barcode scanner?


Can a phone be used as a barcode scanner? While a smartphone can in fact work as a barcode scanner, here are some important factors to consider when selecting the best barcode scanning technology for your business needs, environment and functionality requirements.


Do all barcode scanners read QR codes?

2D codes, such as QR codes and Data Matrix, use squares, hexagons, and other shapes to store data. Not all barcode scanners can read all barcodes. Laser barcode scanners and linear imagers read only 1D barcode scanners. Imager (camera-based) 2D barcode scanners read all common 1D and 2D barcodes.


What happens when you scan a barcode on your phone?

Scanning these modern-day barcodes with your smartphone lets you quickly open a web page, download an app, send a text message, and much more. Many restaurants and bars are even replacing their menus with QR codes, while some stores allow you to pay with a QR code now, so you don't have to touch anything.


Will a photo of a barcode work?

Originally Answered: Can you take a picture of a barcode and scan it? The simple answer is yes - if the barcode scanner that you have has what is known as a 2D (two dimensional) imager as its scan engine. Barcode scanners come with two different types of scan engines.


What is the difference between a barcode and a QR code?

The main difference between barcodes and QR codes is one of physical dimensions. Barcodes can be scanned in a line. This means that data is limited to what can be placed in that one stretch of stripes. QR codes, on the other hand, add another dimension from which information can be written and scanned.