QR Code or Quick Response Code is a type of matrix barcode that contains meaningful information encoded within a square region. These consist of black modules or dots against a white background, arranged in a square pattern. Unlike UPC barcodes, these can contain more information in the given area, and are fast catching up as being trendy and stylish. They can represent a wide range of information including URLs and advertisement data. Since most smartphones have apps that can scan such codes, some businesses have even replaced traditional visiting cards with QR code cards.

A few creative and enterprising people and companies have tried to change the perception of these codes as being boring to made them appear more interesting. We have a collection of such QR codes, so load up the reader app in your smartphones, and get ready to find out what they mean.

While it appears like Coke splashing out of the can, it contains a QR code that points to a Japanese advertising agency. We leave it for you to figure out the URL.

Another code designed by the same Japanese company, but this time it is a humanitarian plea for help after Japan's devastation after the 2011 tsunami.

ESET went creative by asking visitors to scan a series of such codes to uncover and win a Sony VAIO that was hidden behind cockroaches (thankfully, separated from the laptop by glass).

A true amalgamation of mobile commerce and QR codes can be seen here, as Ralph Lauren allows consumers to shop for its products even after it is closed, by simply scanning the code using smartphones.

 

Communication company Sinap created this life-size code out of sand to see if it can be read by a mobile phone. While many phones can read, can you figure out what it says?

Fans of the TV series True Blood can scan this QR to view an exclusive video clip from HBO.

A Dubai hotel is using QR codes in novel ways, and truly gigantic proportions, probably in a bid to attract Hollywood clientele to make Sci-Fi movies.

Now, you can get a tattoo that will also make you feel hep and trendy. Barecodeart.com gives you temporary tattoos that are easy to apply, and last for a day.

LA Thai restaurant adds Asian flavours to an otherwise ordinary QR code.

QR code is a well-established marketing tool in the land of the rising sun, as you can see in these Disney merchandise.

This designer QR code by Paperlinks has plugged musical instruments into a concert venue invite.

In a bid to make it more convenient for its customers to make social transactions, W-41 has started a line of 'scannable' clothing that contain their social networking info.

Creative Brazilian artists Daniel Siarkovski and Rafael Grostein QR-coded a cow with several codes pointing to various URLs during the Sao Paulo annual Cow Parade.

The Japanese can go to extremes, and this gravestone QR is one such example, which contains a message from the "chief mourner" as well as other messages left on the grave's guestbook.

A sanitary products company uses QR code through a negative advertisement to attract customers.

Tags : Internet, Weird, Jayesh