Hi-Tech Japanese Barcode

Hieroglyphics for the modern age. QR Codes are wildly popular in Japan. They are basically a matrix code (or two-dimensional bar code), capable of holding quite a bit more data than a standard UPC code. Based on an internationally standardized system of encoding information, they can be read by visual scanners from many consumer products. These codes are quite common in Japan and are often seen on flyers and magazine ads. As their popularity continues to expand, so does the creativity of their use.

DoCoMo Mobile phone users can scan the code with their built-in camera and immediately have all the text decoded and entered automatically into their phone. Because this technology is so easy for the average person to use, it has developed into a pop culture craze. NOTE: Even the product design thumbnails are camera phone readable.

http://www.cafepress.com/hantranslation/787303