Is QR-Verse really free?

Yes, 100%. Create unlimited static QR codes with full design customization — no signup, no credit card, no hidden fees. Dynamic QR codes with analytics are also free.

What's the difference between static and dynamic QR codes?

Static codes store data directly in the pattern — they work forever but can't be changed. Dynamic codes redirect through our servers, so you can change the destination, track scans, and view analytics anytime without reprinting.

Can I add my logo to the QR code?

Yes! Upload any logo and we'll center it in your QR code. We automatically increase error correction to keep it scannable. Works with PNG, JPG, and SVG.

What file formats can I download?

PNG for digital (social media, websites, email) and SVG for print (flyers, posters, billboards). SVG scales to any size without losing quality.

How does scan tracking work?

Dynamic QR codes include a free analytics dashboard showing scan count, locations, devices, browsers, and time patterns. All tracking is GDPR compliant and opt-in. No cookies on scan pages.

Static QR codes never expire — they work forever with no internet needed. Dynamic QR codes stay active as long as your account is active. We don't artificially limit scan counts or set expiration dates.

Do I need an account to use QR-Verse?

No! Create and download static QR codes without any account or signup. Create a free account only if you want dynamic QR codes with analytics, editing, and team features.

What size should my QR code be for printing?

Download SVG for print — it scales to any size without quality loss. For best scanning results, ensure at least 2cm x 2cm (0.8in x 0.8in) and maintain good contrast between the QR code and background.

Is my data safe with QR-Verse?

Absolutely. QR-Verse is GDPR compliant, uses bank-grade encryption, and never sells your data. Scan analytics are opt-in only, and we place no cookies on scan pages.

Is QR-Verse available in my language?

QR-Verse is fully available in 7 languages: English, Dutch, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. The entire interface, including help docs and support, is localized.

Free QR Generator

Free GS1 Digital Link QR Code Generator

Generate GS1 Digital Link QR codes that replace traditional barcodes with a single 2D code. Encode your GTIN along with batch/lot numbers, serial numbers, and expiry dates — all in one scannable QR code. Fully aligned with the GS1 Sunrise 2027 initiative that requires retailers worldwide to accept 2D barcodes at point-of-sale. No GS1 membership required to generate.

What Is GS1 Digital Link?

GS1 Digital Link is a global standard that turns product identifiers (like GTINs) into web-addressable URIs. Instead of a traditional barcode that only contains a number, a GS1 Digital Link QR code contains a URL that encodes the product ID, batch, serial, and more — while remaining scannable at point-of-sale.

One QR code replaces both the barcode and the marketing QR code on packaging

Encodes product data using standardized Application Identifiers (AIs)

Scannable by POS systems, warehouse scanners, and consumer smartphones

Enables real-time access to product info, traceability, and engagement

Backed by GS1 — the organization behind traditional barcodes (UPC/EAN)

Example GS1 Digital Link URIhttps://id.gs1.org/01/09506000134352/10/ABC123/21/987654

Key Features

Everything you need for a professional QR code

GS1 Digital Link URI standard (ISO/IEC 18975)

Supports GTIN-8, GTIN-12, GTIN-13, and GTIN-14

Automatic check digit validation

Batch/lot number encoding (AI 10)

Serial number encoding (AI 21)

Expiry date encoding (AI 17)

Use your own brand domain or GS1 resolver

Sunrise 2027 compliant — ready for POS scanning

Consumer engagement via the same QR code

Free to generate — no account required

Sunrise 2027: Why This Matters Now

GS1's Sunrise 2027 initiative requires all retailers worldwide to be capable of scanning 2D barcodes (including QR codes) at point-of-sale by the end of 2027. This means GS1 Digital Link QR codes will soon work everywhere traditional barcodes do — plus they carry richer data and link to the web.

By December 2027, all major retailers must accept 2D barcodes at checkout

Traditional 1D barcodes (UPC/EAN) will continue to work during the transition

Early adopters gain a competitive edge with richer product data

The EU Digital Product Passport (2027) aligns with GS1 Digital Link

Companies that wait until 2027 risk supply chain disruptions

Start generating GS1 Digital Link QR codes today — be ready before the deadline.

Perfect For

See how people are using this tool

Retail & FMCG Packaging

Replace the traditional barcode on product packaging with a GS1 Digital Link QR code. One code handles both point-of-sale scanning and consumer engagement — product info, recipes, loyalty programs, or promotions.

Product Traceability & Recall

Encode batch/lot and serial numbers directly into the QR code. When a recall happens, trace affected products instantly by scanning the code — no manual database lookups required.

Food & Beverage Safety

Include expiry dates (AI 17) and batch numbers in every QR code. Consumers can scan to check freshness, view allergen info, and trace the supply chain from farm to shelf.

Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals

Comply with serialization requirements (EU FMD, US DSCSA) by encoding GTIN + serial + batch + expiry. Enable pharmacists and patients to verify authenticity with a single scan.

Logistics & Warehousing

Streamline receiving and inventory management. Warehouse scanners read GS1 Digital Link QR codes to capture product ID, batch, and expiry in one scan instead of multiple barcode reads.

Consumer Electronics

Link consumers directly to warranty registration, manuals, firmware updates, and support pages. The serial number in the QR code enables personalized product experiences.

Sustainability & Recycling

Provide recycling instructions, carbon footprint data, and material composition through the GS1 QR code. Supports the EU Digital Product Passport requirements coming in 2027.

Regulated Products (Alcohol, Tobacco, Chemicals)

Meet regulatory requirements by encoding required identifiers and linking to compliance data, safety data sheets, and age verification — all from a single QR code scan.

Quick Guide

How to Create Your QR Code

1. Enter Your GTIN

Type or paste your Global Trade Item Number. We support GTIN-8, GTIN-12 (UPC), GTIN-13 (EAN), and GTIN-14. The check digit is validated automatically.

💡 TIP: Don't have a GTIN yet? You can get one from your local GS1 Member Organization (e.g., GS1 US, GS1 Netherlands).

2. Add Batch, Serial & Expiry (Optional)

Enrich your QR code with Application Identifiers: batch/lot number (AI 10), serial number (AI 21), and expiry date (AI 17). These are optional but recommended for traceability.

💡 TIP: For pharmaceuticals, serial + batch + expiry are typically required by regulation.

3. Choose Your Domain

Use your own brand domain (e.g., products.yourbrand.com) or the default GS1 resolver (id.gs1.org). Brand domains give you full control over where the QR code resolves to.

💡 TIP: Using your own domain? Make sure it's configured as a GS1 Digital Link resolver.

4. Customize Your QR Code

Add your brand colors, logo, and choose from multiple QR code patterns. GS1 Digital Link QR codes support the same styling options as regular QR codes — error correction ensures readability.

💡 TIP: Keep at least 30% error correction (Level H) when adding a logo for reliable scanning.

5. Generate, Download & Print

Download your GS1 Digital Link QR code as PNG or SVG. The SVG format is recommended for print — it scales to any size without losing quality. Test with at least 3 different scanner apps before production printing.

💡 TIP: Print at minimum 15×15mm for reliable scanning. Larger is always better.

Reference

GS1 Application Identifiers (AIs) We Support

Application Identifiers define what data is encoded in the GS1 Digital Link URI. Here are the most common AIs our generator supports.

AI	Name	Format	Example	Description
01	GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)	14 digits	`09506000134352`	The primary product identifier — required for every GS1 Digital Link.
10	Batch/Lot Number	Up to 20 characters	`ABC123`	Identifies the production batch. Essential for traceability and recalls.
21	Serial Number	Up to 20 characters	`987654`	Unique identifier for individual items. Required for pharmaceutical serialization.
17	Expiry Date	YYMMDD	`261231`	Product expiry date. Used in food, pharma, and cosmetics for freshness tracking.
11	Production Date	YYMMDD	`250115`	When the product was manufactured. Useful for quality control.
13	Packaging Date	YYMMDD	`250120`	When the product was packaged. Common in fresh food supply chains.

Comparison

GS1 Digital Link vs. Traditional Barcodes

See why companies are switching from 1D barcodes to GS1 Digital Link QR codes.

Feature	Traditional Barcode	GS1 Digital Link
Data Capacity	Up to 48 characters	Virtually unlimited (URL-based)
Web Connectivity	None — numbers only	Full web link in every scan
Consumer Engagement	Not possible	Product info, recipes, promotions, reviews
Traceability Data	GTIN only	GTIN + batch + serial + expiry + more
POS Scanning	Yes (established)	Yes (Sunrise 2027 mandate)
Recall Speed	Hours to days (manual)	Instant (scan reveals batch/serial)
Codes on Packaging	2+ codes (barcode + marketing QR)	1 code does everything
Future-Proof	No — being phased out	Yes — the new global standard

Industries

GS1 Digital Link Across Industries

Every industry that uses barcodes today will transition to GS1 Digital Link QR codes.

Grocery & Fresh Food

Encode batch numbers and expiry dates to enable automatic markdown pricing, reduce food waste, and give consumers real-time freshness information.

Automatic expiry-based pricing at checkout
Farm-to-shelf traceability for organic products
Allergen and nutrition info via QR scan

Fashion & Apparel

Link garments to care instructions, sustainability reports, and size guides. The EU Digital Product Passport will require this for textiles from 2027.

Digital Product Passport compliance
Recycling and material composition data
Authentication for luxury goods

Healthcare & Pharma

Meet serialization mandates (EU FMD, US DSCSA) while enabling patient-facing features like dosage info and drug interaction checks.

Pharmaceutical serialization compliance
Patient information leaflets via scan
Cold chain temperature monitoring links

DIY & Home Improvement

Provide assembly instructions, safety data sheets, and warranty registration through the product's QR code — no more lost manuals.

Video assembly guides linked from packaging
Safety data sheets for chemicals and paints
Warranty registration via QR scan

Wine, Spirits & Beverages

Share provenance stories, tasting notes, and food pairing suggestions. Comply with the EU's mandatory digital wine labeling requirements from 2024.

EU wine labeling regulation compliance
Vineyard story and tasting notes
Age verification at point-of-sale

Electronics & Appliances

Link to firmware updates, user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and recycling programs. Serial numbers enable personalized support.

Firmware update notifications
Personalized support based on serial number
WEEE recycling compliance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GS1 Digital Link?

GS1 Digital Link is a standard from GS1 (the organization behind UPC and EAN barcodes) that encodes product identification data into a web URI. This means a QR code can contain both a scannable product identifier for point-of-sale AND a web link for consumer engagement — all in one code.

What is Sunrise 2027?

Sunrise 2027 is GS1's global initiative requiring all retailers to be capable of scanning 2D barcodes (including QR codes) at point-of-sale by December 2027. This means GS1 Digital Link QR codes will work at every checkout worldwide, replacing the need for traditional 1D barcodes.

Do I need a GS1 membership to use this generator?

No. You can generate GS1 Digital Link QR codes for free without a GS1 membership. However, to use a GTIN in production, you do need a GS1 Company Prefix from your local GS1 Member Organization. The generator itself is completely free.

What GTIN formats are supported?

We support all standard GTIN formats: GTIN-8 (8 digits, used for small products), GTIN-12 (UPC-A, used in North America), GTIN-13 (EAN, used internationally), and GTIN-14 (used for outer cases and logistics units). Check digit validation is automatic.

Can I use my own domain instead of id.gs1.org?

Yes. You can use your own brand domain (e.g., products.yourbrand.com/01/GTIN) as the base URL. This gives you full control over where the QR code resolves to. Your domain needs to be set up as a GS1 Digital Link resolver — or you can use our redirect service.

What are Application Identifiers (AIs)?

Application Identifiers are standardized prefixes that define what type of data follows in a GS1 string. For example, AI 01 = GTIN, AI 10 = Batch/Lot, AI 21 = Serial Number, AI 17 = Expiry Date. Our generator handles the formatting automatically — just enter your data.

Can POS scanners read GS1 Digital Link QR codes?

Modern POS scanners can already read QR codes. By 2027, all major retailers are required to accept 2D barcodes at checkout (Sunrise 2027). The GS1 Digital Link QR code is specifically designed to be compatible with POS systems — it encodes the GTIN in a way scanners can extract.

What's the difference between a regular QR code and a GS1 Digital Link QR code?

A regular QR code just contains a URL or text. A GS1 Digital Link QR code contains a structured URI that follows the GS1 standard — it includes product identifiers (GTIN), batch/serial info, and resolves to a web page. POS scanners can extract the GTIN from it, while consumers get a rich web experience.

Is this the same as a GS1 DataMatrix?

No. GS1 DataMatrix encodes GS1 data in a proprietary format that isn't web-addressable. GS1 Digital Link encodes the same data into a standard URL inside a QR code — making it both machine-readable at POS and human-accessible via web browser. GS1 Digital Link is the newer, more versatile standard.

How much does it cost?

Generating GS1 Digital Link QR codes on QR-Verse is completely free. No account required, no subscription, no limits. You can also make the QR code dynamic (editable destination) for free. The only cost is if you need a GS1 Company Prefix for your GTINs — that's through GS1, not us.

What about the EU Digital Product Passport?

The EU Digital Product Passport (DPP), starting in 2027 for textiles and batteries, requires products to carry a machine-readable identifier linking to sustainability and lifecycle data. GS1 Digital Link QR codes are considered the leading format for DPP compliance because they already carry structured product data in a web-accessible format.

Can I encode multiple products in one QR code?

No — each GS1 Digital Link QR code identifies one product (one GTIN). However, you can encode multiple data attributes for that product: batch, serial, expiry, production date, etc. For multi-product scenarios, each item gets its own QR code.

What size should I print the QR code?

For reliable scanning, print at minimum 15×15mm (about 0.6×0.6 inches). For packaging that will be scanned by consumers at arm's length, 20×20mm or larger is recommended. Always test your printed QR code with at least 3 different scanner apps before production.

How do I get a GTIN for my products?

GTINs are issued through GS1 Member Organizations. In the US, visit gs1us.org. In the Netherlands, visit gs1.nl. In the UK, gs1uk.org. You purchase a GS1 Company Prefix, which lets you assign GTINs to all your products. Prices vary by country and company size.

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