WeChat Persuades Chinese Brands To Embrace QR Codes

The messaging app WeChat is encouraging Chinese brands to use QR Codes – for everything.

With 650 million active users a month, the social communications app has got a massive following. And since the app was installed with software that can read QR codes, it has become hyper user-friendly for mobile shoppers.

On Friday, Tencent announced WeChat users will be able to convert transactions into overseas currencies when travelling abroad. The tech giant has established the service in more than 20 countries including Hong Kong, the States, South East Asia and parts of Europe.

Why QR Codes have become so popular

QR Codes, or Quick Response codes, are 2D bars that enable mobile users to easily link the physical world to the digital world. By simply scanning a mobile over a QR code, the information contained within the code is transmitted to the relevant communication centres. It allows consumers to purchase products or can direct them to online content.

Chinese companies are using QR codes in print advertising so mobile users can instantly connect to their social media accounts or learn more about a product by using the code to direct them to digital content. A couple of years ago, QR Codes were touted as the “next big thing” but they failed to appeal to consumers. Now more companies are finding innovative ways to make them useful, Quick Response could have a sudden revival.

Author: Jonathan Gillespie