2. QR Codes
Quick-response (QR) codes, in the vaguest of all terms, are zombie inventions. It's an idea that lived and died down, but somehow it still tries moving forward in its vegetative and rotting state. Let me ask you a question, when was the last time you scanned a QR code from a magazine? When was the last time you've seen someone doing the same? The chances that you'll end up answering that you just did so in the past week is as slim as a beef jerky (unless out of curiosity you decided to scan the image above). QR codes are unnecessary hassles that persist no matter what. They're virtually everywhere. In every billboard, in every poster or banner ad, in every thing that manufactures can print on. The failure of QR codes lies in the method of accessing them. While a big percentage of human population may have access to smartphones or similar "smart" devices, they do not ship with a QR-code reading app pre-installed. Downloading an app may not be too much of a hassle, but there are a lot of people who can't be bothered to acquire an app they would probably only use once in their lifetime. QR codes have lots of potential use beyond marketers using them to further push their products into consumers. They're capable of storing strings of information that could easily be transferable to any receiving end. If only we are able to realize its full potential, then it could be a powerful tool in spreading information. In an ideal world, everyone has access to a QR code scanner that's easy to use, and QR codes take you to sites that are relevant and easy to use.
Current Alternatives: Bluetooth transfer, NFC