Earlier, we covered Microsoft HCCB Tags when they were still a part of Microsoft Research, but they have now gone into Beta mode.
With a similar function as QR Codes, Microsoft Tags are High Capacity Color Barcodes (HCCBs) that use advanced image processing techniques to decode even the most out-of-focus barcode images.
Like QR codes, Microsoft Tags can be used as apart of a marketing campaign where consumers scan the code with their cell phones and they will be directed to the appropriate web page. Where Microsoft Tags have the upper hand on QR codes is their size. Because HCCBs make use of various geometric patterns and colors, they can store the same information as QR codes, but in a much smaller space. This comes in handy particularly with printed material that is paid by the inch.
If you would like to get the Microsoft Tag reader for your phone, you can download it here.Just like with creating your own barcodes or QR codes, you can also create your own Microsoft Tag. For more information on Microsoft Tags, visit their site.
While neither QR codes or Microsoft Tags are that prevalent in the US, it will be interesting to see which makes more of an impact.
Tags:
2D barcode, barcode marketing, HCCB, high capacity color barcodes, microsoft barcodes, Microsoft research, microsoft tags, microsoft tags beta, QR codes
I guess it should be pointed out the main difference between qr codes and microsoft tags is that microsoft intend to charge fees to use their tags where QR codes are free for anyone to create, read and use with no charges or fees at all.
The other advantage with QR codes is any reader will work with any code generator…… no vendor lock in.
Cheers,
Dean
*** Please Note***
There are no charges to install or use the Microsoft Tag reader on your phone, but standard carrier rates apply. During the Beta period, there is no charge to create and or use Microsoft Tags. In the event that Microsoft decides to charge publishers to use Tags, any Tags that were created and used during the Beta period will continue to work, free of charge, for at least two years.
Visit Microsoft Tag FAQ for more information.
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