Aug 3 2009
DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers (P&IP) announced it has successfully engaged some of the most prominent packaging providers in the industry around the use of mobile-enabled, two-dimensional (2D) barcode technology, including Graphics Packaging, Inc. and Printpack, Inc., while also making its learnings in packaging clear to the Open Mobile Alliance (OMA).
A key element in this, based on DuPont's efforts with Scanbuy over the past two years, is Scanbuy's globally interoperable ScanLife mobile enabled 2D EZcode system that has features particularly well suited for packaging and wide breadth in the number of phones it operates with. DuPont believes these efforts will help drive rapid adoptions of the right technology for the right applications in the packaging marketplace through collaboration, consolidation, and standardization.
"It is important to have the industry come together in using best in-class 2D code technology and the right technology for the right application, especially sustainability driven ones where consumers want to quickly see information on environmental footprint and origin," said Shanna Moore, global sustainability director for DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers. "We believe that aligning support with our partners will enable clarity and consistency in its use for the entire value chain."
With the technology from Scanbuy, a Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) marketer can place a 2D barcode on any packaging material to quickly connect consumers to additional product information, coupon offers, or promotional content like recipe ideas -- effectively making the traditional package interactive. A user simply scans the code with a camera phone to access the content in one click, rather than searching for content by key word or typing in a long URL on their mobile phone.
The ScanLife mobile application is being preloaded on millions of new phones in Europe, North America and Latin America -- making it a practical utility for consumers. While the system can read all major code formats, the EZcode offers a number of features which are critical for the packaging industry; strong performance in small footprint areas (as small as one-half inch square) and low light environments, and consistent compatibility with low resolution camera phones. The format was originally developed by ETH Zurich, and licensed to Scanbuy, Inc. who has released the specifications to the public.