What is a QR Code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a type of square barcode that stores information as a pattern of black and white squares. Any smartphone camera can scan it and instantly open whatever data is stored — a website, a phone number, a payment request, or plain text. QR codes were invented in Japan in the 1990s for automotive manufacturing, but today they are everywhere: restaurant menus, business cards, product packaging, posters, and payment terminals.
What Can You Store in a QR Code?
- Website Links: Paste any URL and the scanner opens it in the phone's browser. Useful for menus, landing pages, or event registration.
- Plain Text: Store a short message, an address, or instructions that display directly when scanned.
- Phone Numbers: Scanning a phone QR code opens the dialer ready to call the number.
- WhatsApp Messages: Pre-fill a WhatsApp chat with a specific number and message — great for customer support.
- SMS: Open a pre-written text message to a number when scanned.
- UPI Payments: Generate a payment QR for your UPI ID so customers can pay by scanning.
- Google Maps Location: Link directly to a map location so people can get directions instantly.
- Social Media Profiles: Link your profile URL so people can follow you with a single scan.
- Document Links: Share a PDF or spreadsheet hosted on Google Drive or Dropbox via QR code.
How to Generate a QR Code
- Choose the type of QR code from the dropdown — Website, Text, Phone, etc.
- Fill in the details that appear — for a URL, paste your link; for UPI, enter your UPI ID and name.
- Pick custom colours if you want — the default purple and white works well.
- Click "Generate QR Code" — your QR appears instantly below.
- Click "Download QR" to save the PNG image to your device.
Tips for Using QR Codes
Q: What size should I print a QR code?
A: At least 2cm x 2cm for phones to scan reliably. Bigger is always better — especially if printed on banners or posters.
Q: Can I use a coloured QR code?
A: Yes, but keep enough contrast between the dark and light colours. Very light dark colours or very dark backgrounds reduce scan reliability.
Q: Does the QR code expire?
A: No. This tool generates static QR codes. As long as the URL or content is still valid, the QR code works forever.