The Global Shift Toward 2D barcodes and QR Code Adoption
For more than 50 years, linear 1D barcodes have been the invisible infrastructure of global commerce. They’ve powered retail checkouts, supply chains, and logistics with a single function: identifying products. But in today’s data-driven economy, that’s no longer enough.
The world is now witnessing a massive shift from 1D to 2D codes like QR Code, DotCode and Data Matrix, unlocking new opportunities for businesses, regulators, and consumers alike. This isn’t just a technological upgrade—it’s a transformation in how industries communicate information, ensure transparency, and deliver customer experiences.
Why 2D QR Codes Are Taking Over
Greater Data Capacity
Unlike traditional barcodes, which only store a product identifier, QR codes can carry far more information—expiration dates, batch numbers, nutrition, sustainability details, and even links to digital content.GS1 Standards Push
GS1, the global organization behind barcodes, has announced the sunset of 1D barcodes by 2027, urging industries to prepare for universal 2D adoption. Major retailers, including Aldi and Ocado, are already running pilots with QR codes on products. (GS1.org)Consumer Familiarity
The pandemic normalized QR usage—restaurant menus, contactless payments, and event tickets made them mainstream. By 2025, 42.6% of US smartphone users are expected to regularly scan QR codes, and nearly 100 million Americans have already done so. (Amra & Elma QR Statistics)Resilient & Reliable
QR codes remain scannable even when damaged, crumpled, or partially obscured. This durability makes them ideal for demanding environments like logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Vangel Ivanov, CEO of barKoder:
“QR codes are not just an evolution—they’re a revolution. They connect the physical and digital worlds in a single scan. At barKoder, we ensure businesses adopt this standard seamlessly, with technology that’s fast, reliable, and future-proof.”
Industries Leading the Adoption
Retail & Consumer Goods
QR codes connect consumers directly to product stories: sustainability reports, allergen warnings, or recipe ideas. They also power self-checkout systems, improving speed and reducing queues.
Healthcare & Pharma
2D codes on medicines enable instant verification, combat counterfeiting, and ensure patient safety by encoding dosage and batch information.
Logistics & Warehousing
QR codes provide more detailed tracking for parcels and pallets, ensuring real-time visibility across supply chains. They also improve automation in WMS systems.
Food & Beverage
Traceability is key. QR codes let regulators and consumers trace items “from farm to fork,” providing origin, lot, and safety data.
The Technology Behind Seamless 2D Adoption
While 2D barcodes bring promise, the real challenge is decoding them quickly and accurately at scale. That’s where advanced barcode SDKs like barKoder step in.
MatrixSight for 2D: Enables scanning of QR or Data Matrix barcodes even when they lack some or all their basic elements, and even with severe damages to their matrix cores. Perfect for logistics and shelf inventory.
Specialized DotCode Recognition Mode: The ultimate solution for scanning the small DotCode barcodes. From the creators of the original DotCode software capturing solution.
DPM Mode: Ability to quickly and efficiently scan Data Matrix and QR Codes applied via Direct-Part Marking methods, regardless of surface or technique.
Batch MultiScan coupled with AR Overlays: Enables simultaneous scanning of multiple barcodes in one frame, with options to highlight the scanned barcodes in real-time and even choose which barcodes out of many are to be scanned. Perfect for logistics and shelf inventory.
Vladimir Zivković, CTO of barKoder:
“2D barcodes revolutionize data capture by delivering more context in every scan—in packaging, logistics, and point-of-sale environments. Our technology decodes this complexity in milliseconds regardless of damage and density, keeping operations smooth and informative.”
Preparing for 2027 and Beyond
The transition from 1D to 2D codes is inevitable. GS1’s global 2027 deadline is approaching fast, and organizations that adapt early will be best positioned to take advantage of the benefits:
Increased supply chain visibility
Reduced fraud and counterfeiting
Enhanced customer engagement
Streamlined compliance with regulatory demands
For companies looking to future-proof their infrastructure, 2D barcode adoption is not optional—it’s essential.
Why barKoder Is the Perfect Partner
At barKoder, we’re committed to helping businesses embrace this shift with best-in-class scanning technology. Whether you’re in retail, logistics, healthcare, or manufacturing, our SDK ensures that the adoption of QR and 2D barcodes is smooth, efficient, and cost-effective.
The barcode’s future is 2D—and barKoder is making sure you’re ready for it.
