AT&T is betting big on QR codes as the second-largest U.S. carrier has released a suite of barcode apps and tools for multiple devices including Android and BlackBerry.
The main barcode app is called AT&T Code Scanner and it reads 2D codes, including QR, datamatrix and 1D (UPC and EAN). This app can be downloaded from the Android Market, BlackBerry App World or directly through AT&T’s site. This should make it easier for users to download apps directly to their devices.
AT&T also unveiled the Create-a-Code tool, which easily lets you create barcodes. This can be used to share your website, contact numbers or other information and I found it quick and easy to use.
Corporate folks will be happy to know AT&T also includes a barcode code management platform and this offers measurement and managing tools for these barcode campaigns.
“Our focus on the opportunity that mobile barcode offers businesses to connect directly with their consumers is the latest example of the work AT&T is doing to drive the emergence of new categories of devices and applications that are enhanced by wireless network connectivity,” said Michael Antieri, President, Advanced Enterprise Mobility Solutions, AT&T, in a prepared statement. “Over the course of this year, we intend to help our business customers create measurable and fully managed brand experiences with mobile barcodes to better interact with their consumers.”
The barcode tools could have a major impact on the number of apps that are downloaded for AT&T’s Android and BlackBerry devices because there’s something utterly satisfying about scanning a barcode with your phone. I’m often asked what the big deal is about XYZ phone and I routinely use barcode scanning apps as a demo. Generally, I’ll use the Amazon app to show off how much cheaper a certain product is online and this is immediately met with smiles.
[Via AT&T]