Geek Pro: Use QR codes to make the internet mobile

By Joseph Holder on 6 May 2011 11:40 am

Sometimes, don't you want to take the Internet with you? But Joseph, you'll say, I can already do that. I have this little device; it's called a BlackBerry. Maybe you've heard of it? No, I'm talking about those times when you have to leave your computer. You're in the middle of (shameless plug) a really good article, and it's time to step away. Maybe it's lunchtime; maybe it's time for a visit to the smallest room (don't lie; you've thought about it). Yes you can read the article on your BlackBerry, but then you'd have to open the browser and go to the site. And then follow that one link. And then the other. And the other.

It would be great to just send that URL to your phone and pick up right where you left off, almost instantaneously. There's no app to install on your phone, you already have the necessary pieces. All you need to do is change that webpage address or link into a QR code.

There are a number of free resources to do this. At Kaywa, you can copy and paste the URL into the appropriate box and have the website generate a code for you. You could also install an extension to your Chrome, Firefox, or Safari browser. With the extension, you'll be able to make that QR code with one click from right inside the browser. The extensions should also let you create a code for any link on that page as well.

Now that you have a QR code, what do you do with it? You open up App World. App World has a powerful QR code-reading scanner built right in. In the app, press the menu key and select Scan a Barcode from the list. The scanner will read any QR code, it doesn't have to be one linking to App World. Hold your camera steady as the scanner zooms in on your code. In a moment, you'll be asked if you want to go to your website.

Find a web link. Make a QR Code. Scan it with App World. Done. Geek Pro!

Topics: Barcode QR Code Geek Pro Help, How-To & Tips

Joseph Holder 179 (articles) 23 (forum posts)

21 comments

djdazm May 6, 2011 at 11:45 am

The great irony in the fact that I searched App World for a QR scanning app yesterday.

smh. *facepalm*

Thanks for the info!

mssca May 6, 2011 at 3:15 pm

Older versions of BBM used to be able to scan a QR code and extract info such as web addresses. Now the new BBM (Beta testing one), I can only scan the codes of BBM contacts. RIM is really going backwards and I have no idea why.

shebmiller May 6, 2011 at 12:11 pm

Why not simply email the URL to your phone and open it like that?

I understand that it's a nifty feature to scan QR codes...
but wouldn't copying and pasting the link in an email just be the same?

Kennedy.L May 6, 2011 at 6:54 pm

I have a QR maker right on my firefox toolbar, I find it easier to click a button than open email, sign in, compose...

Personal preference really.

SkySoldier May 6, 2011 at 12:29 pm

Nice. But nothing as fast and simple as Home to Phone.

alirix May 6, 2011 at 1:07 pm

thanks for sharing great article

murialita May 6, 2011 at 1:30 pm

Only problem is I can't use App World if I don't have a cell signal, since I don't have a wi-fi device. It won't even open. And of course, my desk at work gets 0 cell signal. Of course, I did find an app to scan those codes.

3Dee May 6, 2011 at 2:24 pm

An interesting post, but the reason I really wanted to comment is to say what a great addition to the Crackberry team you are Joesph. Your articles are always worth reading, and your podcast apperances are equally worthwhile. The whole Crackberry Idol process was a bit/very weird, but I at least, am very pleased that it resulted in you becoming part of the Crackberry team. Keep up the good work!

Nesquik May 6, 2011 at 1:49 pm

this is a great tip! thanks for the post Joseph (and butters)! :-)

1manparty May 6, 2011 at 2:55 pm

You can also use the "Scan a Group Barcode" option if you are in BBM at the time you need to scan.

Joseph Holder May 6, 2011 at 3:15 pm

Sadly, this feature no longer works in the latest versions of BlackBerry Messenger. The scanner still recognizes the image as a code, but will not process it. Stick to the one it App World; it works great!

benritmeyer May 6, 2011 at 4:48 pm

Or for a better implementation see HP's TouchPad with touch to share!

beach447 May 6, 2011 at 5:34 pm

i followed the directions and every time it tells me "Unable to find the requested server".I am able to scan the barcode and then it's asks if I want to go the the link. When I press yes, it gives me the above message. Has anyone else had this problem?