Age differences in the knowledge and usage of QR codes

Abstract

The adoption of a new technology is often affected by its perceived utility and ease of use, both of which could vary by age due to cognitive differences. A recently invented technology, the quick response (QR) code, enables smartphone users to access content on their mobile devices by scanning two-dimensional barcodes. In this paper, we examine awareness, knowledge, and usage of QR codes across different age groups in the United States, using a representative survey. Controlling for demographic characteristics, we find that older adults were only 13% as likely as younger adults to have used a QR code. We discuss survey results and implications for future research. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.