New Delhi, 10 April 2025: In today’s fast-paced digital world, a small black-and-white square code is playing a big role in making our lives easier. We know it as QR code, whose full name is ‘Quick Response Code’. This tiny code, which looks like a puzzle at first glance, is actually a miracle of technology. But the question is, what is this code and how does it work? Let’s understand its story closely.

Advanced incarnation of barcode

If we understand QR code in simple words, then it is a modern and smart version of the old-fashioned barcode. While the barcode used to scan only in straight lines and could give limited information, the QR code can be scanned from any direction due to being two-dimensional. This feature takes it far ahead of the barcode. According to technology experts, a QR code can store up to 2953 bytes of data, which can include 4296 alphanumeric characters or 7089 digits.

“This code can hold as much information as an entire book in its small size,” explains technology expert Ravi Sharma. “Its capacity and speed make it an important part of today’s digital age.”

The magic of QR code in everyday life

QR code is seen everywhere today—from restaurant menus to payment counters in shops. It takes just a few seconds to scan it and all you need is a smartphone. Whether it is sharing Wi-Fi password, opening a website link, or making cashless payments, this code makes everything easy. According to a recent report by technology website Android Police, QR codes are now being used to store PDF files, emails, and even long messages.

Its use is also increasing rapidly in financial transactions. Payment apps encrypt data using this code, keeping the user’s personal information safe. Ajay Verma, who runs a small shop in Delhi, says, “Earlier customers had to provide their account number or UPI ID. Now the payment is done as soon as the QR code is scanned – no time wasted, no tension.”

How does this magical code work?

The technology behind the QR code is not as complex as it seems. It is a pattern of black and white squares that encodes data in binary form. When you point your phone’s camera at it, the scanner decodes this pattern and reveals the information. Nowadays, phones with Android 8 and iOS 11 or later versions already have a QR scanner. Just turn on the camera, focus on the code, and in seconds the link or data will be in front of you.

Is it completely safe?

Although QR code is another name for convenience, there are some risks associated with it. Android Police reports that codes scanned from unknown sources may contain malware or spyware, which can put your phone’s security at risk. Cyber ​​security expert Neha Gupta warns, “Before scanning any QR code, make sure that it has come from a trusted source. After scanning, check the link carefully before opening it.”

The role of QR code in the future

As the trend of digital transactions and contactless technology is increasing, the importance of QR code is going to increase even more. Experts believe that in the coming years, this code can be used not only for sharing information, but also for sensitive things like identity verification and health records.

So the next time you scan a QR code, remember—this small square is not only a sample of technology, but also a silent hero that makes our lives easier. Just be a little careful, and take full advantage of this digital soldier.