The Future of QR Code Consumer Engagement: What’s Next?

Stay ahead with expert insights into QR Code Consumer Engagement and explore cutting-edge trends driving future brand-consumer experiences.

Marketing with QR code consumer engagement remains a holy grail for brands. QR codes weren’t new in the 2000s, but are a revival of an effective channel for connection and commerce. High smartphone penetration, paired with consumer demand for fast, contactless experiences fueled by the pandemic, revived the effectiveness of QR codes.

But as digitization increases, getting consumers to engage with your brand becomes tough and tight with just ordinary QR codes. Every launch and promotion is a competition for visibility saturation.

So, how about we see today’s QR engagement status to get clues, analyze, and predict how QR code usage will grow and change in the future? Below are the current state of QR customer engagement, dynamic Form QR codes solutions, future trends, and strategies for QR code engagement.

The recent state of QR code engagement

A surge in QR code adoption

The surge in QR code consumer engagement is visibly significant worldwide. According to Profile Tree, the growth has reached about 57% globally in recent years and is predicted to climb another 22% by 2025.

QR Tiger data says that in the U.S. alone, the number of smartphone users scanning QR codes is expected to hit 99.5 million this year, a 16 million increase from 2022. That means almost half of American adults scan codes, and it’s becoming a daily and standard part of operations.

Proving that claim, more than half of global smartphone users scan a QR code monthly, with around 59% of consumers saying they do it daily.  And this isn’t limited to payments, even for healthcare and other sectors.

Beyond trends: The real case

These QR code adoption numbers aren’t just passive engagement; they’re signs of conversions. In 2025, Uniqode reported that transactions with QR code touchpoints produce a click-through rate (CTR) of approximately 37%, a more-than-decent rate for many digital marketers.

Why? Consumers choose to engage because a QR scan usually indicates a moment of intent. In short, QR codes have matured into practical, multifunctional tools interconnected to real-world results, from operations to end-user value.

The strategic integration

While QR codes were once add-on features, that approach no longer works. Today, getting high CTRs needs strategic placement and integration. The latest wave of innovation has pushed brands to go beyond surface-level use. Instead of treating QR codes as isolated tools, reliable form builders now integrate dynamic forms into the codes.

These dynamic form QR codes are both live touchpoints and data collection tools. Conveniently, the forms can be updated or personalized anytime without affecting the generated QR codes.

The future trends in QR code engagement

The dynamic QR code forms are just the start of more innovative QR code engagement trends. Here are several cutting-edge technologies that will help companies engage consumers in the future:

1. rMQR (rectangular Micro QR)

rMQR is a new rectangle-shaped version that emerged in 2022 and is standardized by ISO/IEC 23941. This QR code variant packs its capabilities into narrow spaces, ideal for replacing 1D barcodes or squeezing into side labels. With faster access like rMQR, you nail both brand features and customer satisfaction.

2. QRscript

What if QR codes can execute programming logic, not just redirections? With ‘QRscript,’ QR codes can run decision trees offline, adding interactivity to scans. This could enable configuration steps or diagnostics all offline, simply via scanning.

3. AI and Augmented Reality (AR) integration

Bitly reports that 84% of strategists plan to integrate AI with QR codes, 61% seek to layer in Virtual Reality (VR), and 57% plan to use AR experiences. This means next-gen QR code generators and QR form creators will analyze context about the scanners, personalize content (via AI), or overlay digital objects over physical items (using AR).

4. Point-of-Sale enabled QR barcodes

Retail is undergoing a QR renaissance. According to the Wall Street Journal, GS1, which maintains barcode standards, aims to replace UPC barcodes with “smart” QR variants by around 2027. These codes will carry rich product metadata (sell-by dates, supply-chain origins, allergen warnings), support pricing changes, and streamline inventory. Some retailers (e.g., Tesco, Walmart, P&G, Ocado) are already piloting them.

5. Digital product passports

It is not just in retail; governments are now requiring traceability. In Europe, the Ecodesign regulation will mandate Digital Product Passports (DPPs) or QR-linked digital IDs on all goods sold by 2030. This allows consumers to inspect the eco-story, material origin, repair status, and recycling instructions, with just a scan.

Marketing strategies for QR code consumer engagement

Scan-to-win promo

Embed gamified QR codes in product packaging or point‑of‑sale displays that offer instant, personalized rewards. Use dynamic redirects to tailor prizes based on the user’s profile or purchase behavior.

AR product launches

Launch an AR experience via QR on physical products. Users scan, and an AR model or video overlay showing features, fitting instructions, or sustainability labels appears. This powerful tool is for cosmetics, furniture, appliances, and more.

Self-checkout displays

At retail counters or kiosks, place smart QR codes that double as product info taps, digital receipts, or promotional upsell triggers—blending education, convenience, and cross-sell potential.

QR transparency seals

Use DPP-ready QR codes on goods (especially in regulated sectors like electronics or clothing) to boost brand engagement and trust. These codes link to digital passports for product origin, composition, and compliance.

Field-service automation via QRscript

Include QRscript-enabled codes on devices to provide offline trial flows or setup instructions. This is helpful for field staff working in remote locations, from industrial sites to healthcare equipment maintenance, where connectivity is limited but correct instruction is a must.

AI engagement campaigns

Connect QR scan flows with your CRM and let AI assist. Follow up with personalized messages, such as, “Thanks for checking out our winter coat—here’s 10% off your next purchase.” Over time, analysis models can present targeted offers or recommendations, increasing customer loyalty and lifetime value.

Refine QR code strategies for better consumer engagement

QR codes were once just neat shortcuts, but they are now powerful data collection tools for brands. Their resurgence mirrors the changing preferences and need for immersive user interaction, not just redirects.

With everything above, you now have a solid foundation for understanding how QR codes run today and where they’re headed. Use these insights to rethink and refine how your brand connects with people. The trends we explored aren’t just predictions; they’re opportunities waiting to be shaped by how you apply them.

From these marketing strategies and insights, bring fundamental changes to your brand. Do not be afraid to evolve; we grow and improve only with change. Refine your QR code engagement strategies now!