[mkramlich]

> The Tag system uses a cloud-based back-end that provides access to data that just isn’t possible with earlier QR codes, such as reporting on how frequently and where your Tags are being scanned. In addition, Tags allow you to dynamically change your data source – unlike other 2D codes that are associated with a single, permanent URL, Tags can be updated as frequently as you like to point to new websites, allowing you to reuse campaign materials.

These statements range anywhere from lie to falsehood to sly twisting of the truth. In reality, a QR Code-based system can do all of this as well. What they're trying to confuse with is the distinction between the printed code format and a supplementary service backend that can do, well, whatever one wants it to do, with the data scanned. Microsoft has obviously arranged for one particular service to be created, presumeably to monetize in some way.

I happen to have done some personal R&D in this area in recent months. One of the things that stuck out the most about QR Codes is that they are effectively an open format, not necessarily tied to one app or vendor. Well, more of a format framework for whatever app-specific format and processing system you choose to devise. Think bar codes raised to the power of two.