The foundation of digital marketing has always been an unyielding discipline of always finding “where the people are.”

And that means from websites, to social, to email, to whatever the medium might be — brands are in the relentless pursuit to connect where customers naturally congregate. This makes the QR code an increasingly important tool in the digital marketing wheelhouse, and now, with virtually all camera or system functionality, you can scan QR codes with Android phones.

Android QR Code Scans on the Rise

Not too long ago, activating a QR code meant downloading an app. This created a barrier and limited the number of users who would actually take that secondary step to scan. With built-in QR scanning in the native camera for Android — or the ability to scan via basic functionality — there is virtually no barrier to entry for users who would like to scan a code. What this means for digital marketers is that you can now build programs, launches, or other initiatives around the fact that more than likely, all Android users will be able to scan the code directly without having to first download a secondary app.

Android QR Code Use Cases

With Android QR code scanning so handy, the possibilities are endless in everyday life. Some examples:

• Information at your fingertips: Point at a QR code on packaging to pull up product details, specs, or directions.
• Cash on the carry: Many local shops accept QR-based payments, and with Android, it’s just a touch away.
• Travel light and right: Your boarding pass, ticket, and itinerary can all be stored digitally and accessed instantly.
• Spot on Wi-Fi and on you go: Certain routers and cafés display QR codes that Android can scan to connect you seamlessly.

Going from IRL to URL, by Way of Android

Often, the best way to connect what’s in your hand with what’s online is through a QR code. Android makes that connection effortless. A poster, flyer, or brochure can come alive in someone’s pocket simply with a scan. It’s a natural bridge that gets people from point A to B quickly and smoothly.

Right Now, Right There

With Android QR scanning, instant actions become second nature. See a QR code on a menu? Scan and view the latest specials instantly. At an event? One scan on signage can bring up maps, schedules, or exclusive content. Instead of searching or fumbling, everything is ready in seconds — all with a simple gesture.

Reduce and Scan on Android

When scanning is this easy, there’s less need for paper and waste. Instead of printing long booklets or tickets, one QR code can hold it all. Android users benefit by carrying less while still accessing coupons, maps, or websites with a tap. Everything stays at their fingertips — without the extra bulk or printing.

Android QR Scanning

It’s an efficient, everyday way to connect. At a concert, in a store, or on the go, scanning is always with you. 

Pay with a QR code, pull up a menu, or explore a catalog — there are countless ways to use it. With Android, scanning is effortless and reliable, and it is always just a glance away.

How It Helps With Marketing

• Driving Users Directly to Content

While there are many virtues of QR codes, one of their true powers lies in acting as a shortcut to content. With a simple scan, you can have users arrive on a landing page, registration form, or video tour of your latest promotional offers instantly, without the need to remember a URL and manually type in the address. For Android device users, since scanning is built into the camera and/or accessible via a function, this shortcut is especially valuable as it requires very little action between interest and scanning.

• Marrying Offline and Online Marketing

In most cases, offline marketing materials such as door hangers, posters, or print displays are a one-way experience to expose a user to your messaging without any way to capture interest and build engagement. Adding QR codes to these types of physical environments bridges the gap for Android users to take the offline message and launch into an online experience.

• Personalised Experiences Using Data

When you are creating a QR code-supported campaign, there is a lot more you can do with it to make sure it’s as effective and engaging as possible. By creating QR codes that Android users can scan to experience something that’s personalised to what they’re seeing in front of them, you can easily give them more of what they care about in a relevant way.

Final Thoughts

Offering instant value, the ability to bridge online and offline experiences, fostering sustainability, and the potential for providing more personalised experiences, QR codes on Android are a must if you’re hoping to connect with customers in a smarter, more engaging way. The ability to scan QR codes is only going to get more developed, so as Android continues to refine the tech, you will always have a tool in your arsenal to help you take everyday interactions with customers and turn them into memorable brand moments.