WebAR vs. QR Codes
QR codes (Quick Response codes) are two-dimensional barcodes that smartphones and other scanning devices can read. They can store many kinds of information, such as URLs, text, contact details and even coupons. QR codes can now also deliver Augmented Reality content through web-based AR browser technology called WebAR.
QR codes are a versatile, convenient way to share information. They’re becoming more popular across a wide range of uses, from marketing and advertising to product information and event registration.
Overall, QR codes are a powerful tool with many uses, and they’re likely to become even more widely used in the years to come. In 2022 alone, 80 million smartphone users in the US scanned a QR code, up 25% on 2020. That’s expected to rise to 100 Million by 2025 (Scanovia).
There are three main types of QR codes: Static, Dynamic and WebAR. Let’s take a look at each.
Static QR codes can’t be changed once they’ve been created. The information the QR code points to, such as the URL, text or image, is fixed and can’t be updated. Static QR codes are often used for marketing and advertising campaigns because they’re more affordable than dynamic QR codes.
Static QR codes are a versatile, affordable tool with many uses. If you want a QR code that doesn’t need to be updated, a static QR code is a great option.
Dynamic QR codes can be updated after they’ve been created. You can change the information the QR code points to, such as the URL, text or image, without reprinting the QR code.
Dynamic QR codes are often used for marketing and advertising campaigns because they let businesses track campaign performance and make changes as needed. Some Dynamic QR code tracking systems can also track consumer behavior, such as where the QR code was scanned, the time and date, the type of device being used and, on occasion, the location of the scan.
Dynamic QR codes are a versatile, powerful tool with many uses.
WebAR codes are QR codes that launch an augmented reality (AR) experience in a web browser when scanned, hence WebAR. Users don’t need to download a separate app to see the AR content. WebAR QR codes can be used for product visualization, marketing campaigns, educational experiences and even fully integrated, high-end omnichannel marketing programs.
Once the WebAR experience has been created, a QR code is produced that opens the WebAR browser containing the unique experience. That QR code can then be printed, or shown on a website or in a physical location.
When a user scans a WebAR code, their device opens a web browser and loads the AR experience. The experience appears on the user’s screen, overlaid on the real world, and the user interacts with the AR content by moving their device around.
WebAR codes have a number of advantages over traditional QR codes. They deliver more immersive, interactive and memorable experiences, along with real-time campaign analytics and reporting that is in most cases far richer than a traditional QR code can offer. That makes WebAR an extremely effective marketing and communications solution, and an essential ingredient in high-performing omnichannel marketing programs.
It’s worth noting that the QR code technology behind all of these experiences is the same, but only a QR code assigned to a WebAR browser can deliver Augmented Reality content.
Conclusion
In conclusion, WebAR codes are an engaging way to deliver AR experiences to users. With no separate app or special hardware needed, they can be used in many locations and situations to deliver rich interactive content that stands out from traditional marketing. That makes them an essential tool for any modern omnichannel marketing strategy.
Contact us if you’d like to learn more about WebAR and how it can make a difference in your marketing.