QR code vs. NFC

The QR code (Quick Response code) is a type of two-dimensional barcode that can be read by a smartphone or tablet equipped with a camera and decoding software. It is mainly used to store and transmit information such as URLs, phone numbers, texts, and images.

NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short-range wireless communication technology that allows data to be exchanged between devices. It uses radio frequency and allows the exchange of data between devices by simply bringing them into contact with each other or bringing them closer to each other.

 

There are several differences between the QR code and the NFC:

  • Security: NFC is more secure than the QR code because data transmission is done via a secure connection. NFC has a short range to get information, but this can be an advantage in some cases because it means the user must be physically close to the NFC tag to communicate with it. Additionally, NFC can be encrypted to ensure access is protected.
  • Speed: NFC is faster than QR code because you don't need to take a picture of the code.
  • Accuracy: NFC is more accurate than QR code because there is no need to align the device with the code.
  • User experience: NFC offers a better user experience because it is easier

 

Here are some examples of using QR codes and NFC:

Examples of use

Use of QR codes:

  • Payment of invoices or bills online by scanning the QR code on the invoice
  • Access to websites by scanning the QR code on an advertising poster
  • Sharing contact details by scanning the QR code on a business card

Using NFC:

  • Pay for in-store purchases by tapping the phone on the payment terminal
  • Exchange music files or photos between two phones by putting them side by side
  • Access to product information by tapping the phone on the product label in a store.

Innovation in Restaurants

NFC technology, or Near Field Communication, is increasingly used in the restaurant industry. Indeed, it allows easy and secure communication between different devices located nearby. One of the main uses of NFC technology in the restaurant industry is the use of "PoP tags" (Proof of Presence tags).

Sittap.com is a French start-up that has developed an all-in-one restaurant management software based on NFC technology, which allows restaurants to offer better service with less effort. The idea is to verify the presence of customers so that they can order themselves if they wish, without having to pay in advance.

PoP tags are a secure alternative to QR codes, which have been used by many restaurants as part of their self-service ordering systems. Although this technology has its advantages, it may not be the most practical solution for customers or restaurant owners, especially for self-ordering.

PoP tags are dynamic, which means that each time a customer scans the tag with their smartphone, it generates a new unique link. This helps improve security by making it difficult to create fictitious orders from outside the restaurant. Additionally, PoP tags are encrypted, which means they cannot be easily duplicated or hacked, and they are token protected which allows the link to be used only once (for a single order).

Sittap is an innovative and practical solution that simplifies ordering and payment in restaurants and works indoors. It aims to simplify the order between the customer and the kitchen while informing the waiter of the menus to be served at each table. It's the only solution in the world that allows restaurant customers to order themselves at the table without having to pay in advance!