Google Goggles is an Android Augmented Reality (AR) app that uses the phone’s camera to identify images, places and more. Like most barcode apps, Google Goggles scans QR codes to direct people to urls, but what makes it different is its ability to scan objects and places.

For example, if you see a restaurant, simply snap a picture using Google Goggles and information and reviews will display on your phone… the restaurant doesn’t even need to display a QR code!

While there are a lot of unidentifiable items, I’m sure identification abilities will continue to expand. For example, while Google Goggles can identify celebrities, it probably won’t be able to identify you, as of now, but who knows what the future will bring.

Although QR code usage is still under adoption, if an app like Google Goggles is perfected, would there still be a need for QR codes? I highly doubt this, mainly because of marketing efforts, but some consumers just want the facts, so it could work to their advantage. Weigh in by commenting here, or on our Facebook Page.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technonolgy’s Media Lab recently implemented a program using RFID readers as a part of a network of presence-based information displays.

When visitors come to the Media Lab, their presence is sensed through ultra high frequency RFID readers via RFID badges that they are given to wear. From there, the system automates the creation of personal profiles, and then saves it so that they can be accessed online later.

With this system, visitors will be able to retrieve personalized content and group information sharing, delivering location and activity data to an interactive display that tracks the progress of their visit. From there, visitors can build a personalized portfolio of their visit, then view, bookmark and save information on research projects, even being able to share their experiences with others who are interacting with the system.

I really like the interactivity of this solution. Yesterday, we discussed how mobile barcodes make the world come to life, but in this instance, RFID does the job. However, some may argue that this could infringe upon visitor’s privacy, but in this instance, I think the benefits of the experience definitely outweigh any cons.

Recently, we discussed how Calvin Klein replaced their once racy billboards with QR codes, bringing a lot of publicity to the emerging technology in the US.

While more and more folks are constantly adopting QR Codes, I found an interesting use of them at The Fort Smith National Historic Site.

By placing QR codes on interpretive signs, The Site is able to give visitors access to a three-minute orientation video. The videos make guest visits more enjoyable by providing a historical perspective, and give instruction where necessary.

Information that was once speculated upon can now instantly become available to guests right where they are standing. Guests simply snap a photo of their QR code with their mobile phone via a free application.

QR codes definitely increase user experience in any situation, but for a place like The Fort Smith National Historic Site, they make things truly come to life.

If you’ve seen QR codes somewhere interesting or unexpected, we want to hear about it! Let us know by commenting here, or on our Facebook page.

It was recently announced that all Intermec 2D Imagers are now supported by the smallest USB 2.0 decode board available, the Intermec ED40. The ED40 is capable of offering high-speed data transfers of both videos and images, increasing scanning speed.

The Intermec ED40 features:

• USB 2.0 Interface that offers high data transfer speeds
• Advanced micro-processor generation for maximum scanning performance
• Compatibility with all Intermec 2D ImagersLow power modes for battery optimization

In addition, the ED40 is designed to work in even the most hostile of work environments, operating with a large temperature range and complying with stringent shock and vibration standards.

Learn more about Intermec and their products here.

Ever since the advent of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, skeptics have thought that “big brother” was coming, while proponents argued that the technology has more benefits than harm. Now, with Wal-Mart about to implement a new ID-based inventory tracking system, privacy concerns have become elevated.

Wal-Mart plans on placing removable RFID tags on individual garments that will allow workers to quickly determine which sizes are missing, etc., to ensure that shelves are stocked and inventory is tightly tracked.

From a supply chain perspective, this sounds like a great idea, but for those who are concerned with privacy, it is worrisome. Although tags can be removed from the garments, they can’t be turned off and are easily traceable. Potentially, marketers or criminals could track where consumers live, even scan their garbage to discover what had been recently purchased.

Previously, I had discussed how certain states are adopting RFID licenses. With Wal-Mart’s new technology, retailers would be able to scan those customers’ ID’s without them ever finding out. In theory, retailers could scan the RFID enabled licenses as customers make purchases, combine the information with their credit card data, and then know their identity.

Proponents dismiss these concerns, and Wal-Mart is asking that suppliers use only removable labels, rather than embedding tags in the clothes themselves, to dismiss concerns on being able to track every action of a consumer.

As someone in the Auto-ID industry, I think that this is a step in the right direction for Wal-Mart, and I’m sure other retailers will follow suite. However, if you have a different opinion about RFID in clothing and other personal items, we’d love to hear it. Let us know by commenting here, or on our Facebook page.