Phasing out of 1D retail (UPC) barcodes - replacement will be 2D (QR style) codes

[bcla]

I wondered exactly how UPC worked since I was thinking that they probably would run out of numbers for each manufacturer/seller, especially with a worldwide standard. UPC only represented numbers, while this new code will probably have lots of stuff that we see on 2D codes. I know this was often because older laser retail scanners (or wands) only used a moving laser scanning in one direction. But now cameras and software to read 2D codes is easy.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1648001215941279745

https://www.gs1us.org/industries-and-insights/by-topic/sunrise-2027

 

[bcla]

So apparently retailers and manufacturers would like to include more info besides just a manufacturer and product identifier. The might include expiration dates and lot codes. Maybe serial numbers.

https://www.supermarketnews.com/ret...s-out-test-kit-retailer-2d-barcode-transition​

One-dimensional barcodes, such as EAN/UPC, can only accommodate a product identifier known as the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN). On the other hand, 2D barcodes can handle additional data, such as expiration date, batch/lot number, serial number and more. Some 2D barcodes, like QR Code using GS1 Digital Link, can carry more data while connecting consumers and other users to online resources, content and experiences, GS1 US noted. In addition, 2D barcodes are likely to be smaller than their 1D counterparts and include features like built-in error correction that boost their reliability.​