QR Code Billboard

A QR code is a two dimensional visual code that can contain a large amount of information and read by many smart phones and other mobile devices. Think of it as a sophisticated barcode that you can scan with a phone and thus acquire media. In the case of the Calvin Klein billboard pictured, the code reveals a sensual ad typical of the sort for which that fashion brand has become famous. Mashable writes about the rise of QR codes in advertising:

QR codes are increasingly appearing in advertisements as a way to increase engagement with consumers. Although already common in Japan (where they were originally invented), they do not appear in many advertisements — much less take up an entire billboard. Most U.S. citizens still do not own smartphones, and even those that do don’t necessarily know what a QR code is or have the necessary scanning software to read it.

The billboards are clearly a test run for Calvin Klein Jeans, given that they will be up for only a little more than a week. If the videos get enough views, however, we can expect similar billboards in the future — both from Calvin Klein Jeans and from other brands. It’s often difficult to measure engagement with billboards, and QR codes help advertisers better measure their impact.

Link via Gizmodo | Photo: Mashable

Previously on Neatorama:
Space Invaders Scarf
Barcoded Gravestones