Recently, QR codes have become a key tool for connecting the physical and digital worlds. As we move into 2025, understanding QR code trends will be essential for businesses and marketers looking to leverage this technology for customer engagement and streamlined experiences. Before diving into emerging trends, let’s take a look at the latest QR code usage statistics from 2024, provided by QR Code KIT, to better understand the current landscape.
QR code usage statistics for 2024
According to QR Code KIT data, website QR codes remain the most popular type of QR code created by companies, accounting for 50% of all QR codes generated by businesses. Following closely are file download QR codes at 7%, menu QR codes at 6%, digital business card QR codes at 5%, and social media QR codes at 4%.
In general QR code creation, website QR codes still lead with 28% of all QR codes created globally. File download QR codes come next at 24%, followed by Google Maps QR codes at 8%, WhatsApp QR codes at 7%, and YouTube QR codes at 6%. These statistics highlight the continued growth in QR code usage across different industries and user groups.
These insights set the stage for predicting how QR codes will evolve in 2025. From increased personalization to advanced integrations, the future of QR codes is full of exciting opportunities.
Emerging QR code trends in 2025
1. Dynamic QR codes for personalized experiences
Dynamic QR codes are expected to dominate in 2025 as businesses seek more personalized customer engagement. Unlike static QR codes, a dynamic QR code allows for real-time updates, making them ideal for marketing campaigns and product packaging. Companies can update their QR code destinations without reprinting the code, saving time and resources.
How to leverage dynamic QR codes:
- Use dynamic QR codes in marketing and advertising campaigns.
- Personalize content based on customer interactions.
- Track and analyze global QR code scans to improve future campaigns.
2. QR code payment systems
QR code payment systems are becoming more secure and widespread. With the increased adoption of contactless payments, QR codes are playing a crucial role in transforming how consumers pay for goods and services.
Benefits of using QR code payment systems:
- Secure transactions with minimal hardware requirements.
- Instant access to payment gateways.
- Popular in the consumer goods industry and small businesses.
3. QR codes in augmented reality
Another exciting trend for 2025 is the integration of QR codes with augmented reality (AR). By scanning a QR code, users can instantly access AR content, offering immersive experiences in industries such as retail, real estate, and entertainment. Platforms like RealityMAX make it easier for businesses to visualize products in 3D and provide customers with interactive AR experiences that blend physical and digital worlds.
Use cases for AR-enhanced QR codes:
- Product visualization in retail.
- Interactive marketing campaigns.
- Enhancing customer feedback through AR experiences.
- Collaborative 3D exploration through platforms like RealityMAX.
4. Secure QR codes to protect user data
As QR code adoption grows, so does the risk of malicious QR codes. In 2025, we will focus more on secure QR codes that protect user data and prevent fraudulent activities.
Best practices for secure QR codes:
- Use reputable QR code generators.
- Educate users on how to identify malicious QR codes.
- Implement security features such as encryption and verification.
5. QR codes in digital business cards
Digital business cards are becoming more popular as professionals look for sustainable and efficient ways to share contact details. QR codes on business cards provide a quick way to share information and connect.
Why digital business cards are trending:
- An environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cards.
- Easy to update contact information.
- Improved networking opportunities.
6. Food packaging QR codes
QR codes on food packaging will continue to play a significant role in providing consumers with instant access to product information, such as nutritional details, sourcing, and sustainability practices.
Benefits of QR codes on food packaging:
- Increased transparency in the supply chain.
- Enhanced customer engagement.
- Compliance with regulatory requirements.
7. 2D barcodes for enhanced flexibility
As QR codes continue to evolve, businesses are also exploring other types of 2D barcodes to improve their workflows and customer interactions. Unlike traditional barcodes, 2D barcodes can store more information and support a wide range of applications. Digital Link allows companies to personalize their 2D barcodes, ensuring compliance, enhancing shopper engagement, and improving visibility across the value chain.
Why 2D barcodes are important:
- Provide more data storage compared to traditional barcodes.
- Improve supply chain transparency and traceability.
- Enable seamless integration with digital tools and platforms.
QR code usage in marketing and advertising
The use of QR codes has surged in the marketing and advertising industries, especially in interactive campaigns. Businesses can use QR codes to bridge the gap between physical ads and digital experiences.
Key marketing strategies with QR codes:
- Add QR codes to print ads, billboards, and product packaging.
- Use QR codes to drive traffic to landing pages.
- Integrate QR codes into social media marketing.
QR code menus in the hospitality industry
QR code menus became a necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic, and their use has remained steady. In 2025, digital menus are expected to become more interactive, offering personalized dining experiences and instant access to promotions.
Why QR code menus are here to stay:
- Contactless ordering for safer dining.
- Easy to update menu items.
- Increased customer engagement through digital promotions.
Growth in global QR code scans
The global QR code market is expected to see significant growth in 2025. With smartphone QR scanners becoming more sophisticated, scanning QR codes has never been easier.
Factors driving the growth in QR code scans:
- Increased smartphone penetration worldwide.
- Consumer familiarity with QR code technology.
- Adoption of QR codes in new industries.
QR code customization for branding
One of the most effective ways businesses can stand out is through QR code customization. By adding logos, colors, and brand elements, companies can make their QR codes more recognizable and engaging.
How to customize QR codes for branding:
- Use branded QR codes in marketing materials.
- Ensure QR codes are scannable across devices.
- Combine QR code customization with secure QR codes.
QR code trends in customer engagement
QR codes continue to be a powerful tool for increasing customer engagement. By providing instant access to relevant content, businesses can improve customer experiences and build stronger relationships.
Customer engagement ideas with QR codes:
- Use QR codes to gather customer feedback.
- Provide exclusive content through QR code scans.
- Track and analyze customer interactions with dynamic QR codes.
QR code technology in advertising campaigns
Advertising campaigns that integrate QR codes have proven to be more effective in driving customer actions. From app downloads to product demos, QR codes can enhance the overall marketing landscape.
Examples of QR code use in advertising:
- Scanned QR codes on product packaging leading to tutorials.
- QR codes in retail ads offering discounts.
- Interactive ads using QR codes for augmented reality experiences.
Conclusion: The future of QR codes in 2025
The adoption of QR codes will continue to rise in 2025 as businesses explore new ways to integrate this technology into their marketing strategies. With trends such as dynamic QR codes, augmented reality integrations, secure QR codes, and digital business cards, the QR code landscape is set to evolve significantly.
By staying informed about the latest QR code trends and understanding QR code usage statistics, businesses can better leverage QR code solutions to improve customer engagement, streamline processes, and enhance their overall marketing efforts. Whether you want to create unique QR codes for marketing campaigns or add QR codes to your product packaging, QR Code KIT provides the tools and expertise you need to stay ahead in the growing QR code market.
