Scan & Generate
QR Code & Barcode Blog
Guides, tutorials, and tips on QR codes, barcodes, and scanning technology — for businesses, developers, and everyday users.
EU Digital Product Passport (DPP): QR Code & Barcode Requirements Guide for Businesses (2026–2027)
The EU Digital Product Passport requires a scannable QR code or barcode on covered products starting in 2026–2027. Learn the timeline, what data it must carry, GS1 Digital Link basics, and how to prepare.
How to Track QR Code Scans for Free (No Subscription Required)
Learn how to track QR code scans for free using UTM parameters and Google Analytics — no dynamic QR subscription needed. Includes a step-by-step setup and what you give up by going free.
Barcode Lookup: How to Find Product Information from Any Barcode (2026 Guide)
Learn how to look up any product from its barcode number — UPC, EAN, ISBN, or GTIN. Covers free online lookup tools, smartphone scanning, and what data you can retrieve.
How to Make a QR Code for a PDF (Free, No Expiry) — 2026 Guide
Learn how to make a QR code for a PDF that is free and never expires. Step-by-step guide to hosting your PDF, choosing static vs dynamic, and avoiding the subscription trap.
QR Codes for Events: Tickets, Check-In, Schedules & Networking (2026 Guide)
Learn how to use QR codes for events — from ticketing and check-in to schedules, networking, and sponsor booths. Includes step-by-step setup and free tools.
GS1 Sunrise 2027: Why Stores Are Replacing Barcodes With QR Codes
The 1D barcode is being retired. Learn what GS1 Sunrise 2027 means, how 2D barcodes and GS1 Digital Link work, and what the shift means for shoppers, brands, and small businesses.
How to Create a Google Review QR Code for Your Business (2026 Guide)
Turn one scan into a Google review. Step-by-step guide to finding your review link, creating a free QR code, and placing it where customers will actually use it.
How to Use QR Codes for Your Small Business in 2026 (Complete Guide)
A practical guide to using QR codes in your small business — menus, payments, reviews, marketing, loyalty programs, and more. With free tools and tips for getting started fast.
QR Code Safety: How to Spot Fake QR Codes & Stay Safe in 2026
QR code phishing ("quishing") is rising fast. Learn how to identify malicious QR codes, what to do before scanning, and which scanner apps protect you best.
QR Codes vs NFC Tags: Which Is Better for Your Use Case?
A complete comparison of QR codes and NFC tags — cost, range, compatibility, security, and which technology to use for contactless menus, payments, asset tracking, and marketing.
AI QR Codes: The 2026 Trend Explained (What They Are & Do They Work?)
AI-generated QR codes that look like artwork are trending in 2026. Learn what they are, how they're made, whether they actually scan reliably, and when to use them.
Best QR Code Scanner Apps in 2026: Full Comparison
Comparing the top QR code scanner apps for iPhone and Android in 2026 — features, ads, privacy, and price. See how Scan & Generate stacks up against the competition.
How to Create a QR Code for a Link (URL) — Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to create a QR code for any URL or website link. Free, instant, and works with any link — social media, Google Maps, YouTube, documents, and more.
Barcode Types Compared: EAN-13 vs UPC-A vs Code 128 vs QR Code
A complete comparison of barcode types — 1D barcodes (EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 128, Code 39) vs 2D codes (QR Code, Data Matrix). Learn which format to use and when.
QR Codes for Restaurant Menus: Setup Guide & Best Practices
Learn how to create QR code menus for your restaurant. Covers free setup methods, design tips, table placement, and common mistakes to avoid.
How to Add a QR Code to Your Business Card (2026 Guide)
Learn how to create and add QR codes to business cards. Covers vCard QR codes, design placement tips, printing specs, and the best free tools to use.
How to Scan QR Codes on iPhone & Android (2026 Guide)
Learn how to scan QR codes on any smartphone — iPhone, Android, and tablets. Covers built-in camera scanning, Google Lens, and third-party apps.
Static vs Dynamic QR Codes: Which Should You Use?
Understand the difference between static and dynamic QR codes, when to use each, and how dynamic QR codes let you change the destination URL without reprinting.
QR Code Size Guide: Minimum Size, Print Guidelines & Best Practices
Learn the ideal QR code size for printing on business cards, posters, and packaging. Includes minimum size requirements, scanning distance formulas, and resolution tips.
What is a QR Code? History, Types & How It Works
Learn what QR codes are, how they store data, the different types (static, dynamic, micro), error correction levels, and why QR codes are used everywhere today.
Types of Barcodes Explained: 1D vs 2D Codes
Learn the difference between 1D barcodes (EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 128, Code 39) and 2D codes (QR Code, Data Matrix, PDF417, Aztec). Complete guide with use cases.
How to Create a WiFi QR Code (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step-by-step guide to creating a WiFi QR code. Share your WiFi password with guests by letting them scan a QR code to connect automatically. Free tool included.