Genius. I've always wondered how many people actually take the time to scan QR codes on posters and such. I mean, don't companies track QR code scan-through rates?
Which is the conventional wisdom (no one scans anything) but its not actually correct. I've done some QR tests which have picked up hits (not huge mind you but non-zero). There was also the story of the guy[1], on Sharktank, where one of his props was a QR code and he picked up customers who scanned it (from their TV) while watching the show.
It isn't common, that is for sure. And the bar code folks don't make it easy for folks. Simply publishing the bar code database would be a huge 'win' for barcode adoption.
I bet they built custom hardware for a couple reasons:
1. Custom hardware sitting around reminds you of Amazon and your ability to order. Having a new device feels more futuristic, which does seem logically odd.
2. Durability. While cooking etc, you dont' want to touch your phone. This looks very easy to clean/throw around.
3. Barcode scanner speed. Apps with cameras are much, much slower at recognizing barcodes than this. This removes a lot of interface. Just scan it and you're done -- no hassle switching apps, holding the camera just right, etc. I bet this feels more natural.
I see one - convenience. It takes much longer to unlock phone, open app, than scan instead of just scanning. Also probably easier to use by multiple users (kids might not have smartphones)
I won't cry over breaking this vs my $600 smartphone in the kitchen. I had to clean my wife's phone off just a day ago, as she was using it while baking and it was covered in flour.
I guess it’s easier to scan with a dedicated device than with a mobile phone (“scan, scan, scan” vs. “open the app, take a picture, let it scan, take another picture, let it scan, etc”), plus you only need one device at home everybody can use without having to take your/their phone.
Have you ever tried to scan a barcode using a phone's camera? The process is pretty terrible, it takes forever to focus, and you better hope you have perfect light.
Compared to a dedicated barcode scanner, phones are pretty terrible for this.
It sounds like they are gunning for it to be an "appliance" of sorts. The same way very few people actually use cell phones as TV remotes, even though the software is out there.
In my experience, the camera takes too long to focus to really be practical for scanning many items. Also, it's marketed as a multi-user device, which a smartphone is not.
Related: http://picturesofpeoplescanningqrcodes.tumblr.com/