Reading a GS1 QR Code: A Simple Guide for Consumers and Professionals

Reading a GS1 QR Code is as easy as scanning any other QR code. The process is identical across all modern smartphones.

• Open your camera app and point it at the QR code.

• A notification or pop-up will appear, showing the embedded URL.

• Tap the notification to be redirected to the associated website.

A GS1 QR Code always contains this primary link, making it a reliable way to access basic product information.

While a standard phone camera only shows the default website, a GS1 QR Code can contain much more structured information. This is managed through a feature called "Link Types," which allows a single QR code to serve multiple purposes.

These Link Types can provide access to specific, targeted information, such as:

• Product details and specifications

• Nutritional and allergen information

• User manuals and how-to guides

• Promotional offers or coupons

• Certifications and sustainability data

For developers, manufacturers, and anyone needing to access the full data payload, the dedicated GS1 QR Code Scanner is the recommended tool. Unlike a standard camera app, this scanner decodes the entire data set.

When you scan a valid GS1 QR Code with this tool, it shows:

1. The default URL that a consumer would be redirected to.

2. Separate buttons for each "Link Type", allowing you to instantly navigate to different content (e.g., product details, allergens, user manuals) all from a single scan.

This makes it an essential tool for testing and debugging GS1-compliant codes to ensure all embedded data is correctly configured and accessible.