0 comments
The social media giant is launching QR codes globally, allowing consumers to engage with retailers and other physical businesses contactlessly.
Instagram has rolled out yet another update to its mobile app, this time offering a universal QR code that can be used to quickly access individual profiles. Any supporting third-party camera app can be used to scan a code that then allows users to easily share and gain access to other accounts.
This is not an entirely new concept – a plethora of other apps already employ their own QR systems. Many of the major internet players including Twitter, Facebook,WhatsApp, and Spotify have been ahead of the game for some time now, fronted by Snapchat which originated the concept all the way back in 2015. What sets Instagram’s launch apart from the rest, however, is that it allows retailers to create and display unique codes for shoppers to use if they’re interested in accessing a company’s Instagram account hassle-free.
From there, people can view store hours, purchase items in-app (if the account has previously been set up for sales), or just give the page a quick follow. While the technology’s been around for years, it notably took a pandemic for it to become widely accepted, as more and more consumers begin relying on tech for everything from accessing restaurant menus to viewing Google Maps locations. QR codes are easy to generate from a business perspective and a critical solution from a consumer perspective because they encourage contactless experiences and reduce physical touch points that might further spread disease. This is especially beneficial amidst the current Covid-19 crisis.
‘QR codes present businesses with an opportunity to adapt to consumers’ contactless preferences, no matter what line of business they are in,’ says Nick Starai, co-founder of payment provider, NMI. ‘By allowing consumers to easily scan a QR code directly from the app, Instagram is creating the ability for businesses and consumers alike to quickly, easily, and without contact, launch a digital link to their business profiles. This will empower brick-and-mortar businesses to convert that consumer from in-store to online to create a seamless customer experience and streamline the online payment process.’
Officially available worldwide as of today, it replaces the need for similar, internal systems such as Nametags, which is exclusive to Instagram. In order to generate a QR code users will need to head over to the settings menu, tap ‘QR code,’ and save or share the image. So, whether you’re a small business looking to add local followers or you’re just trying to quickly exchange profiles with a new acquaintance, why not test out the feature? It’s certainly a lot easier than hoping they spell your name correctly on the first few tries.
