The QR codes are at the heart of a newly launched Google service called Favorite Places on Google. When consumers scan the code on their mobile phones they are directed to a Google mobile web "Place Page" featuring the business where the decal is displayed.
Consumers can then interact with the Place Page in various ways. For example, they can read reviews to see what other users think about the business, they can find any coupons that the business may be offering, or they can leave their own review of the business.
The programme, currently running only in the US, is based around Google's Local Business Center. Companies that have registered and added their information to the LBC are eligible. Google identifies the most popular registered companies by keeping track of how often consumers search for that business or ask for directions to its premises.
Google intends to distribute future window decals to new "most popular" businesses. A company cannot request a decal. It has to be earned though consumer interaction.
One current barrier to adoption of the QR system is that a phone must have a barcode reader installed to scan the code.
