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Alternative To QR Code Uses NFC and Cheap Rectennas

Posted by timothy on from the which-infrastructure-do-you-prefer? dept.

An anonymous reader writes "The BBC reports researchers in Korea have developed a technology that can be used as a viable alternative to QR codes. Made of plastic and electronic ink, the rectennas cost less than one penny each to produce and use the NFC standards for wireless radio communication to devices. They are seen as a cheap, easy-to-print and environmentally friendly way to overcome the limitations and inconvenience of QR codes, the usage of which has greatly increased in the last few years."

8 of 164 comments (clear)

  1. Rectannas by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    Rectannas is just not an appealing word...

    1. Re:Rectannas by stevegee58 · · Score: 4, Funny

      Reminds me of Cartman's anal probe.

    2. Re:Rectannas by Cute+Fuzzy+Bunny · · Score: 3, Funny

      Quoth the 2nd link in TFS (I know, I'm relatively new here):

      A rectenna is a rectifying antenna, a special type of antenna that is used to convert microwave energy into direct current electricity.

      (Boldface in the original)

      Absolutely 100% incorrect. This is a rectal antenna. I knew the cell phone companies would find a way to stick it up our butts eventually.

    3. Re:Rectannas by cayenne8 · · Score: 1, Funny

      I'm still trying to figure out what a QR Code is....

      --
      Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.........
    4. Re:Rectannas by Havenwar · · Score: 4, Funny

      Short for Quantum Rectal Code.

      It's complicated. All about qubits, existing in two states at once, and giant rectennas in uncomfortable places.

  2. Re:Environmentally friendly? by smooth+wombat · · Score: 4, Funny

    Of course the best thing you can do for the environment is not have any antenna gobbling-up any power at all.

    What? Are you crazy! This is technology! We must embrace it because it's new and hip and the next best thing since sliced bread so you can be notified of the newest whiz-bang piece of technology which came out three seconds ago.

    If you're not connected every second of every day, with the ability to instantly respond, you're not living life to the fullest. How are businesses supposed to notify you of their latest offerings if you're not connected?

    Luddite.

    --
    We will bankrupt ourselves in the vain search for absolute security. -- Dwight D. Eisenhower
  3. Re:limitations and inconvenience of QR codes by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 2, Funny

    1. Consumer must actively perform a task (waking up phone and pointing the camera at QR code) to attain product advertisement.
    2. Space limits; QR code can only go to URL, which may not be accessible depending on network congestion, losing delicious, delicious advertising opportunities.
    3. Consumer can actually, heaven forbid, refuse to scan QR code (NOTE: legal team is working on making this degenerate activity unconstitutional, progress is slow).
    4. QR codes make it difficult to take control of our advertising devices from consumers, depriving us of our tasty, luscious advertising opportunities... mmmm... advertising... *pause to wipe drool from face*

    Oh, I'm sorry. Did you think QR codes were made for YOU? Wow. Such naivete! That's hilarious! Now get back to consuming, drone! You wouldn't want us to report you as a malfunctioning currency transfer conduit, would you?

  4. Re:Missing the point? by PPH · · Score: 3, Funny

    These rectennas can be covered by advertisement without impairing their function.

    NFC == Near Field Communications.

    You're going to look pretty silly climbing up onto that billboard with your cellphone.

    --
    Have gnu, will travel.