NFC and QR for identification: practical differences
NFC and QR can provide a way to open information from a physical item. They use different reading methods. Choose according to the reader, the product and the information you need to make available.
How they are read
NFC uses a compatible phone or reader held close to the chip. Depending on the phone and data format, you may need to enable NFC, unlock the screen or tap a notification.
A QR code is scanned with a camera or code scanner. On iPhone, the built-in Camera app or Code Scanner can read a QR code; tap the displayed link to open it. The printed code must remain readable by the camera.
Do they need an internet connection?
If either method opens a web profile, an internet connection is needed to load that page. Reading the chip or code and loading an online profile are separate steps.
Bracelets from the current production batch have one NFC chip linking to the web profile. Opening the profile requires a compatible NFC phone and an internet connection. These units do not include a second chip for storing personal information for offline reading.
Can the information be updated?
Information on a web page can be updated while keeping the same address. In that case, the NFC chip or QR code linking to it does not need to change. Current bracelets use a single chip linking to that web profile.
What should I check before choosing?
- Whether the intended phone supports the reading method.
- How to open the web profile with a compatible NFC phone.
- Whether internet access will be available when opening the profile.
- The product's fit, specifications and setup instructions.
Read the official instructions for scanning QR codes on iPhone, NFC on iPhone and NFC on Android.
Continue with our bracelet selection guide or browse the catalogue. Test the chosen product with the intended reader.