We stumbled across this little gem and had to pass along – seems that Google is getting all jiggly with the made-in-Japan QR Code tech. now finally. We found it at least somewhat ‘interesting’ they opted to use the iPhone – instead of Android – handset for the promo video. We paused the u-Tube clip embedded below and tried a few scans which returned link addys – mostly the same one – loaded site pages, on our Jpn handset, that were basically useless.

At least it’s nice to see the ball is rolling there and they opted for the totally open-source solution with no associated costs for the reader, or to create unique codes, unlike some of the alternative platforms floating around with $$ attached.

The idea sounds great on paper (or pixels), but because of privacy concerns in the United States, the process can be a little laborious in reality. First, you have to download the right code reader for your specific mobile phone.

Then, when you see a code in a store window, you have to start the correct code-viewing application, allow the application to access your camera, take a photo of the code, and then agree again to allow the application to use the image to open the particular Web page with the additional information. With all these legal hurdles, it can take 45 seconds or more to look up a code.

In Japan, by comparison, nearly all phones ship with an embedded QR Code reader, and the legal hopscotch doesn’t exist. Activating the code becomes a one-click adventure.

Must admit, we’re a bit ‘confused’ about the privacy & legal issues mentioned in the article? Certainly, in reference to having the app. pre-installed vs. downloading it (once).. especially now that iPhone folks seem to be getting the hang of all that technical app. stuff by now.. they ‘could’ just boot the browser and do a mobile web search without any ‘issues’ at all..?!?

Significant that Google – of all players – would be the ones trying to ease the discovery process, there’s something beyond this for their rev.2 we’d say..

Related posts:

1. Google Adds Walking Maps
2. Movie QR Codes Coming Soon
3. JMango Taking QR Codes Global
4. Google Android GPS Application
5. DoCoMo and Google Announce Partnership

Some sage advise when entering new turf; Stop, Look and Listen.. it’s also good to secure a local guide. Japan is the cradle of mobile civilization – we have been dedicated to this space since 2001 – trust our archives here offer some useful material.

Domestic activities continue to set the pace, and sharp players are looking at global markets. We have hard-earned industry expertise and trusted network of contacts with access to advanced intell. and potential deal flow. Need a lift.. Ok, buckle-up!