Should be in a few years barcodes entirely of Matrixcodes be replaced, like the responsible standardization organization GS1 has decided. The reason: the lines with the numerical code underneath, which are used to identify different products, cannot store enough data. The European Article Number (EAN) allows a maximum of 13 digits – according to GS1, these are not sufficient.
The one-dimensional bar code should therefore be replaced by two-dimensional matrix codes. These basically correspond to what you already know from QR-Codes knows.
New scanners required
GS1 aims to introduce 2D codes by 2027 at. Together with the US association, the organization is working on a roadmap under the name „Sunrise 2027” out of, reports Axios. No new barcodes will then be issued anywhere in the world. However, old barcodes may continue to be used.
2D codes instead of barcodes
© GS1
In order to be able to read the matrix codes, shops must have a new one Scanner and updated software. In the 2D codes so-called Uniform Ressource Identifier (URIs) be integrated. This can be used to call up additional information about a product. Manufacturers, for example, could identify counterfeit products more easily. In addition, recalls could be implemented more easily in this way.
From 2027 only 2D codes
Consumers, on the other hand, could be offered cooking recipes, ingredients or washing instructions. The integration of information, for example on the sustainability of products and the integration of the best-before date, would also be conceivable. This would make it easier to identify products that were about to expire.
In the years to come, 2 codes will appear on many packages. From 2027, only the new 2D codes will be recognized worldwide.
