There has been a lot of discussion regarding the use of Blackberry mobile devices in the workplace. While some still consider them most secure, Android and Apple devices are rapidly catching up.

Even the federal government could be ready to make a switch, and sooner rather than later. Numerous agencies within the government are allowing government employees to bring in their own preferred devices, rather than sticking with the standard, company-issued Blackberry devices. In fact, Congress now allows iPads and iPhones on the House floor and some branches of the government have even seen a significant decrease in Blackberry usage.

Do you think your company-issued Blackberry will be replaced by an Android or Apple device in the near future? Let us know what you think by commenting here, or on our Facebook or twitter pages.

Happy Memorial Day from your friends at Barcoding Inc.

In Europe, Coca-Cola recently launched Coke Sound Up, a campaign featuring two new designs that showcase QR codes. Once scanned, the codes link to the Coke Music Portal, where consumers can enjoy some tunes.

In addition to the QR codes, Coca-Cola also redesigned their can itself, making it sleeker and slightly smaller for added mobility. In an effort to attract young consumers, Coca-Cola has also begun using four different slogans. Between the sleek can, designs and slogans, the QR codes will undoubtedly be scanned by their target demographics.
 
To further enhance the packaging’s appeal for younger consumers, Coca-Cola has started the campaign with four different catchy slogans. If you’ve seen the new Coke cans I’m person, let us know what you thought by comennting here or on our Facebook or Twitter pages

A Canadian software-development start-up, CustomerIn Systems, has been working on a Near Field Communication (NFC) solution for restaurants and bars. The solution is a mobile application called Connected Restaurant that would allow diners to use their mobile phones to get a table, order a drink or other services all through their NFC-enabled phones.

The app is not yet available to consumers, but is currently going through pilot testing with a restaurant. When a customer arrives with an NFC-enabled phone, they are able to check in by tapping their phone agains a tag on the front desk. Once the phone is tapped, the tag’s ID number is sent to a CustomerIn server and the Connected Restaurant app is downloaded onto the phone. From there, the customer will be able to choose from a variety of prompts such as request a table, order a drink or even order an appetizer, all via their NFC-enabled phone.

When a customer’s table is ready, they will receive a text message, and once seated, another NFC tag at the table can be tapped and a detailed menu, including ingredients and calories, will appear. From there, a waiter or waitress can be prompted and consumers can go about their regular dining experience.

It’s important to note that the app would not replace service staff, only add to the customer experience. In the future, CustomerIn Systems also plans on developing solutions for other industries, such as car dealerships and grocery stores.

While not all smart phones are NFC-enabled, it will only be a matter of time before NFC is widely supported and apps like Connected Restaurant become the norm. Would you want to use your phone to order or get seated at a restaurant? Let us know what you think by commenting here, or our Facebook or twitter pages.

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is about to launch a new service using QR codes. Essentially, the barcodes will link to promotional campaigns for the USPS and if you place their barcode on your mail, you will receive a 3% discount on the cost of sending.

While 3% may not sound like a lot for a letter or two, but imagine how much companies could save on mailing their printed collateral! The QR codes will be provided by the USPS and the promotion will run during July and August. USPS Manager for Marketing Mail stated, “By creating a promotion for placing mobile barcodes on mailpieces, we’re [USPS] providing marketers with a compelling way to reach an internet-savvy customer base.”

While I think a lot of mass-mail such as marketing collateral may make use of the QR code discount, I doubt consumers will. In addition, the content that the QR code contains will play a major role in whether or not it is used. Would you put a USPS barcode on a mailer, what about your personal mail? Let us know what you think about the USPS QR codes by commenting here, or on our facebook or twitter pages.