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GS1

GS1 standards (Sunrise 2027, Digital Link, DataBar, GS1 DataMatrix/QR) and the GS1 parser. Articles from the barKoder blog.

Pharma Barcodes Acting Up? Here’s Why They Don’t Always Scan.

Pharmaceutical barcodes don’t always scan as expected, and the problem isn’t necessarily the barcode itself. Small GS1 DataMatrix codes, poor printing, reflections, curved packaging, lighting, and camera quality can all affect scanning performance. This blog looks at the most common reasons pharma barcodes can be difficult to scan and how reliable barcode-scanning technology like barKoder can help deliver faster, more consistent results.

A Barcode Scanner's Crazy Day: What Happens in 24 Hours?

Every second, thousands of barcodes are being scanned somewhere in the world. From supermarket checkouts and warehouses to hospitals and global supply chains, barcode scanners quietly keep modern commerce moving. Take a 24-hour journey through the surprisingly busy life of the barcode scanner.

GS1 Digital Link Explained: The QR Code That Replaces Your Barcode

With GS1 Sunrise 2027 around the corner, retail point-of-sale is experiencing its biggest shift since the introduction of the traditional UPC/EAN barcode. GS1 Digital Link turns a simple QR code into a multi-purpose tool that serves checkout scanners, inventory systems, and shoppers' smartphones all at once. Here is everything you need to know about how GS1 Digital Link works and how to get your systems and packaging ready before 2027 arrives.

Exciting News: Release of barKoder SDK 1.7.1!

barKoder SDK 1.7.1 is now available with improved performance, efficiency, and regional data parsing. Updated versions of the Barcode Scanner by barKoder are also available on Google Play and the Apple App Store, delivering a faster and more reliable scanning experience across mobile and web platforms.

Why Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Red Bull Must Add QR Codes to Every Can by the End of 2027

By the end of 2027, many leading beverage brands, including Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Red Bull, are adopting QR codes and other 2D barcodes as part of the GS1 Sunrise 2027 initiative. These digital codes go beyond traditional barcodes by enabling faster retail operations while giving consumers instant access to product information, nutrition facts, recycling guidance, authenticity verification, promotions, and sustainability details with a simple smartphone scan.

Barcode Types Explained: 1D vs 2D and Which One You Should Use

Barcodes come in two main types: 1D (linear) and 2D (two-dimensional). While 1D barcodes are simple, low-cost, and perfect for retail, 2D barcodes pack more data into less space, making them ideal for healthcare, logistics, and mobile use. This guide explains the differences, pros and cons, and helps you decide which barcode type best fits your business needs.