Keep track of everything: The barcode is disappearing, and what's coming next? – Image: Xpert.Digital
🚀 Goodbye to the barcode: How 2D codes are revolutionizing our product world 🌐📦
The switch to 2D codes such as GS1 DataMatrix and GS1 Digital Link in QR codes has been decided and marks a technological advancement in product identification. While the classic EAN barcode can still be used for simple applications during a transition period, the new technologies offer expanded possibilities for transparency, traceability, and consumer interaction. However, this requires investment in new hardware and software, as well as training for employees on POS and WMS systems.
The Sunrise 2027 project also introduced new terminology, which, understandably, has often been confused, misrepresented, or misinterpreted in media reports due to a lack of background knowledge. In this article, we aim to clarify the situation, dispel existing uncertainties, and demonstrate that everything is much simpler than it initially appears.
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The introduction of new barcode technologies such as GS1 DataMatrix and GS1 Digital Link in QR codes brings significant changes for retail (point of sale, POS) and warehouse management systems (WMS). Here is an overview of the three variants and their impact:
An overview of the three barcode variants
An overview of the three barcode variants
1. EAN barcode (1D barcode):
- The classic one-dimensional barcode (e.g. EAN-13) only encodes the GTIN (Global Trade Item Number), which serves to identify a product.
- It is widely used, but limited in terms of the amount of data that can be represented and its flexibility.
2. GS1 DataMatrix (2D barcode):
- A two-dimensional code that can store additional information such as expiry date, batch number, or serial number.
- Particularly suitable for product and pallet marking as well as traceability in the supply chain.
- Requires specialized scanners and software updates to process the expanded data.
3. GS1 Digital Link in QR code
- Connects physical products to the digital world through web-enabled URIs (Uniform Resource Identifiers).
- Enables dynamic content such as product information, marketing campaigns, or legal notices that can be updated at any time.
- QR codes can be printed smaller than classic barcodes and offer more space on packaging.
Changes at the Point of Sale (POS)
Hardware updates
POS systems must be converted to optical scanners that can read both 1D and 2D codes. A transition phase is expected until the end of 2027, during which both code types will be used in parallel.
Efficiency improvement
2D codes enable faster and more precise scans because they contain more data and have built-in error correction.
Customer experience
QR codes with GS1 Digital Link offer consumers access to additional information such as allergens, recipes or sustainability data directly via their smartphone.
Changes in Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Data integration
GS1 DataMatrix enables more detailed recording of product information such as batch or serial numbers. This improves traceability and inventory accuracy.
automation
The ability to capture multiple data points in a single scan reduces manual input and minimizes errors.
flexibility
Dynamic QR codes can be used for various purposes, such as tracking products along the supply chain or managing recalls.
The difference between the commonly known QR code and the GS1 Digital Link in the QR code
The GS1 Digital Link is a standard that structures and encodes information in a QR code so that it can be used by both machines (scanners) and people (with smartphones).
The GS1 Digital Link uses the QR code as its carrier format, but not every QR code automatically contains a GS1 Digital Link. It depends on whether the encoded information adheres to GS1 standards, which include URLs to provide product specifications, tracking information, or other data.
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Why will the familiar barcode no longer exist in the future?
The reason for this lies in the increased need for information: Both consumers and companies require more and more information about products directly on the packaging. This includes, for example, the expiration date, batch or serial numbers, as well as internet links to ingredients, allergen information, sustainability aspects, product images and videos, or consumer reviews.
2D codes, such as QR codes or the GS1 DataMatrix, offer the necessary information capacity and thus meet the new requirements.
The three established GS1 standards
The three established GS1 standards: GS1 DataMatrix, QR code and Data Matrix – Image: Xpert.Digital
There are various types of 2D codes, with three variants defined according to GS1 standards. Two of these are already in use: the GS1 DataMatrix and the QR code in combination with the GS1 Digital Link. The latter allows access to further information on the internet. The third variant, the DataMatrix with GS1 Digital Link (center of image), is still in the testing phase; no pilot projects are known to date.
The term 2D matrix code
It serves as a generic term for the QR code, the DataMatrix code and other similar formats.
A 2D matrix code is a general category of machine-readable codes that store data in a two-dimensional grid (matrix). These codes can store more information in a smaller space than conventional barcodes. There are several types of 2D matrix codes, including:
Main types of 2D matrix codes:
1. QR code (Quick Response Code)
- Widely used for marketing, product information, and mobile applications.
- Supports links, text, contact information, etc.
2. DataMatrix code
- Particularly commonly used in industry and medical technology.
- Small and efficient, ideal for small products or labels.
3. Aztec Code
- Primarily used in transportation (e.g., tickets, boarding passes).
- It does not need a “still area” (white border) around the code.
4. PDF417
- A stackable 2D code that can store larger amounts of data.
- Often found in official documents such as identity cards or flight tickets.
5. MaxiCode
- Specifically for logistics, e.g. for parcel services (FedEx, UPS).
- Can also be read during scanning while in motion.
Properties of a 2D matrix code
- Can encode alphanumeric characters, binary data, and special characters.
- It is error-resistant, meaning it is often still readable even if damaged.
- Supports various applications, e.g., product tracking, mobile payments, or authentication.
Differences to 1D barcodes
- 1D barcodes (e.g., EAN, UPC) store data only linearly (in one dimension).
- 2D matrix codes store data in two dimensions (horizontal and vertical) and therefore offer significantly higher capacity.
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