Do QR Codes Expire? A detailed guide by mobiQode
Video- Why do QR codes expire?
Ever created a QR code that just suddenly stopped working? It’s easy to assume that the QR codes expired. But in most cases, that’s not true.
QR codes can stop working for many reasons. The information linked to the QR code may not be accessible anymore, or the QR code generator used to create it might have stopped supporting it.
Let’s look at the top reasons QR codes expire and the best ways to reactivate them.
Types of QR codes
Static QR codes
Static QR codes contain fixed data that cannot be edited or changed. Any changes to the information encoded require regeneration and reprinting. They can be used where the information encoded in them stays constant, such as payment links for merchants or one-time marketing campaigns.
Dynamic QR codes
Dynamic QR codes are editable codes that can be updated even after printing and redistribution. They can be used to track inventory, create contactless menus, or display time-sensitive information like event tickets. You can edit the data linked to a dynamic QR code through the QR code generator you used to create.
Do static QR codes expire?
While static QR codes don’t expire, the information they link can become outdated. If the linked content in a static QR code changes or gets outdated, the QR code will expire, and you will have to regenerate it to reflect those changes.
Do dynamic QR codes expire?
Dynamic QR codes can also expire if the information linked to them gets outdated or the QR code generator used to create the QR code limits the number of scans. Canceling your QR code generator’s subscription can also cause your dynamic QR codes to expire.
How to create a QR code that doesn’t expire?
- Choose a reliable QR code generator
Use reliable QR code generators that can create QR codes without any limitations. There shouldn’t be any scan limits or time limits on the QR code generated.
Apart from reliability and high uptime, the QR code generator should have features like:
- Fully customizable: You should be able to customize the style and colors of the QR code. There should also be the option to add your logo or other branding elements to align the QR codes with your brand identity.
- Multi-URL landing pages: The tool should allow you to direct users to different web pages through a single QR code.
- Dynamic: Generated QR codes should be dynamic, allowing you to make changes anytime without the fear of codes expiring.
- Generate the QR codes
Decide what information you want to encode—a website URL, contact details, plain text, images, or videos. Customize the QR code and download it as an image file.
- Manage the QR codes
QR code generators like Mobiqode allow you to edit QR codes after generation and even track usage analytics. You can check how many people have scanned the QR codes and update the content when needed.
Best practices to avoid QR code expiry
Scheduled maintenance
Set calendar reminders to periodically review the data linked to your QR codes. Identify and address any potential issues before users encounter them.
Offline backup
Consider creating an offline backup if your dynamic QR code links to a critical document or resource. You can also generate a separate QR code linked to that backup to ensure continuous access.
Opt for a subscription model
Avoid free QR code generators that might deactivate codes after a certain period. Look for subscription-based tools offering long-lasting or non-expiring QR codes. Ideally, the tools should keep your QR codes active until your account isn’t canceled.
Also, keep an eye on your subscription plan and renew it before it expires to avoid any issues. You can also enable automatic renewals to ensure your QR codes function seamlessly.
Generate QR codes that never expire
To ensure your codes function smoothly for a long time, choose a reliable QR code generator like mobiQode. We offer always-up, highly reliable, and fully customizable QR codes you can edit anytime.
Sign up for a free trial or register for a new mobiQode account to generate QR codes.
FAQs
How do I reactivate an expired QR code?
The right way to reactivate an expired QR code depends on the type of QR code and the reason behind its expiration. If a static QR code has expired, the easiest way to reactivate it is by generating a new QR code. Of course, this will involve redistributing the QR code again.
To reactivate a dynamic QR code:
- If the content is outdated or inaccessible, update it through your QR code generator
- In case the QR code is inactive because your QR code generator no longer supports it, shift to a reliable tool like Mobiqode that offers non-expiring QR codes
Is there a free QR code generator that does not expire?
Free QR code generators can have limitations, such as scan limits or time limits. Subscription-based tools like Mobiqode generate QR codes that never expire, ensuring your codes always work and never leave you hanging.
How long do QR codes stay active?
The longevity of QR codes depends on the QR code generator you use. Some may have indefinite validity, while others may expire after some time. Review the terms of the QR code generator to understand the duration for which your QR codes will remain active.
