JAPAN Cell phones using QR CODES

Japanese QR codes provide marketers a glimpse of the future
Now it's time to provide some details to those of you who aren't familiar with this groundbreaking technology that's adding a new dimension to marketing in Japan.
The image you see above is an example of a QR code. Essentially, QR codes are a new type of bar code that can hold hundreds of times more information than in the past, including alphanumeric characters and Japanese text. Most Japanese cell phones now come equipped with QR code readers that quickly scan using the phone's camera lens.
Why is this important?
Because brands are using them in all kinds of new ways to reach consumers.
For instance, QR codes are widely seen on posters and billboards, providing anyone with a cell phone immediate access to everything from information on consumer prize campaigns to addresses and maps for retail outlets.
For example, in the below TV ad, NTT DoCoMo explains to viewers how QR codes work. The commercial employs the example of a QR code printed on a poster to provide consumers with information on a special retail sale.