The minute bokode (3mm wide) developed by MIT is capable of being read at distances of up to 5 metres. A camera can read multiple bokodes at once, and can record up to 1,000 times more information from a bokode than from the traditional striped barcode. On top of this, the bokode can give out different information depending on which angle the (standard mobile phone) camera is pointing. As Dr Ankit Mohan from MIT points out, this means that a product which is off at an angle from the one being observed by the consumer can say “Hey, look at me, I’m a dollar cheaper”.  The potential at retail for cheap and effective marketing is enormous, while the removal of the traditional barcode would create a blank canvas for packaging designers.

In terms of its wider use, the technology could radically enhance services like Google Street View: Placing a bokode on a restaurant front for example (invisible to passers-by) would mean that a Google truck could record what type of food the restaurant offers, its menu and its opening times. In practical terms this means that Google Street View becomes a much more content-rich consumer experience and another media platform for clever marketers.

Although the bokodes currently use light powered by a built in LED, and therefore cost $5 dollars each, a passive (power-free) bokode has been developed which should be available for around 5 cents. Will we soon see the end of the barcode?

Watch Dr Mokan present the technology himself. Click here.

If you have any comments or suggestions please email Daniel Scott.