Google Links its Directory to the Real World with Bar Code Stickers

Posted 12/07/2009 at 10:15am | by Paul Lilly

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Google appears to be trying to redefine what it means to 'window shop.' Taking the expression literally, the search giant has begun sending out window decals, or bar codes, to over 100,000 local businesses in the U.S. that rank as the most searched for and researched on Google.com and Google Maps.

"We're calling these businesses the 'Favorite Places on Google' and you'll now to start to find them in over 9,000 towns and cities, in all 50 states," Google stated in a blog entry. "Each window decal has a unique bar code, known as a QR code that you can scan with any of hundreds of mobile devices -- including iPhone, Android-powered phones, BlackBerry, and more -- to take you directly to that business' Place Page on your mobile phone."

The benefit of doing so, says Google, is you'd be able to look up reviews on the spot, get a coupon, or star a business if you want to remember it for later. At sometime in the near future, Google says you'll a also be able to leave a review on the mobile page too.

Want to see how it works? View a YouTube demo here.

Image Credit: Google