Barcodes Could Be Replaced by QR-style Codes Within Two Years

Although the zebra-striped tag has become prevalent in the previous 50 years, the barcode's days may be numbered.

The global organization in charge of their usage has stated that a more powerful alternative will be available to merchants worldwide within two years.

According to GS1, an international non-profit that manages the worldwide barcode standard, new codes that include sell-by dates, product instructions, allergens, and ingredients, as well as pricing, will mean "we will say goodbye to the old-fashioned barcode."

QR codes might replace barcodes within two years

Tesco has begun to use them on select items, and other trials have shown that integrating sell-by dates in the new QR-style codes may reduce wastage of perishable food like poultry, allowing for more dynamic pricing.

When stricter environmental restrictions take effect, QR codes will provide customers with rapid access to additional product information, such as how to recycle batteries, garments, and building materials.

However, they will increase the demand for the world's cloud computing resources, where the more data they hold will be kept, potentially increasing the carbon footprint.

Read more: Brazil Introduces QR Code Passports for Pets