Barcodes are changing. Soon, all retailers around the world will be scanning 2D Barcodes at point of sale instead of EAN barcode images.
Create 2D Barcodes for your products with IBN Link and our trusted partner Global Barcodes.
2D Barcodes are replacing traditional UPC and EAN codes. Get ready with IBN Link and make the switch today!
Find out more about the transition to 2D Barcodes
Generate 2D Barcodes from your GTINs (EAN numbers) bought from Global Barcodes
data encoded: 0701197903555
Scan Result at Point of Sale: 0701197903555 (GTIN)
The only information contained is the barcode number (GTIN). The retailer has to manually link the GTIN to the product name and price within their own inventory system.
Scan Result on a Smartphone: 0701197903555 (GTIN)
data encoded: https://id.ibn.link/01/00701197903555
Scan Result at Point of Sale: 0701197903555 (GTIN)
A 2D Barcode functions just like a UPC/EAN barcode at the Point of Sale (displaying the GTIN number, which is connected to the product name/price in the retailers system).
Scan Result on a Smartphone: Product Info Page (eg https://future-products.com.au/vivafizz-naturale/) which shows you the product name, description, image, and GTIN number.
When scanned on a smartphone, a 2D Barcode directs the user to a landing page, typically the Product Information Page, via a Resolver service like IBN Link. The page will automatically appear in the language set on the smartphone, provided it’s configured in the IBN Link dashboard. For instance, the barcode to the left will display content in English or Portuguese based on your phone's language settings.
data encoded: https://id.ibn.link/01/00701197903555/10/3?15=250902
Scan Result at Point of Sale:
0701197903555 (GTIN)
Batch 3
Best Before 2 Sept 2025.
Scan Result on a Smartphone: Product Data Page (https://ibn.link/01/00701197903555/10/3/?15=250902) which shows you the GTIN number, Product name and information, Batch Number, and Best Before Date.
Scan the 2D Barcode below with your smartphone camera to see how a 2D Digital Link QR Code works!
How do I buy?
Buy 1 years' access to IBN Link at Global Barcodes. This enables you to pay in your local currency and access the same 5-star rated service. At the end of the year, they will let you know it's time to renew.
Once purchased, we'll create an account for you at IBN Link and you will be able to add products and create your 2D Barcode images from your GTINs purchased from Global Barcodes.
Who are Global Barcodes?
At Global Barcodes, we have been offering an exceptional service since 2017. We provide barcodes at affordable prices with unique benefits for our customers.
We are proud to have a stellar reputation among our customers who are selling their products successfully using our barcodes.
With over 13 years of experience in barcode sales for retail, we’re proud to supply our products and services to all types of companies, from entrepreneurs to multinational corporations, as well as government agencies.
Do I still need EAN barcodes?
Yes. The EAN barcode number will be encoded into the 2D Barcode image. Buy your barcode numbers at Global Barcodes.
Is there a free alternative?
Global Barcodes customers can create basic 2D Barcodes from their EAN numbers for free by registering for the Barcodes Customer Portal.
If you want to add GS1 Digital Link Types, Key Qualifiers and Data Attributes, and to have your product details shown in IBN Link's online database, then you should buy a subscription.
How are 2D Barcodes different from traditional barcodes?
Traditional barcodes store data in a series of black and white lines, while 2D barcodes use patterns of squares, dots, hexagons, and other shapes. This allows 2D barcodes to encode more data in a smaller space.
Can 2D Barcodes display information in different languages?
Yes they can. When scanned with a smartphone, 2D Barcodes automatically display information in the device’s language setting. For example, if a smartphone is set to Portuguese, the content will appear in Portuguese, provided the product owner has set up multiple language options in their IBN Link dashboard
Why are retailers switching to 2D Barcodes by 2027?
Retailers are adopting 2D barcodes because they can store much more information, scan faster and more accurately, and work across a wider range of products and industries. The barcode industry has set a global goal for all retailers to upgrade their systems to support 2D barcode scanning by 2027.
Will my existing UPC/EAN barcodes still work?
While the transition to 2D barcodes is underway, most retailers will continue to accept traditional UPC/EAN barcodes for a period of time. However, it is recommended to adopt 2D barcodes as soon as possible.
How do I generate a 2D Barcode for my product?
At IBN Link, we provide an easy-to-use platform where you can create 2D barcodes for your products. Simply enter your product information and our system will generate the barcode for you.
How can customers scan 2D Barcodes?
Customers can scan 2D Barcodes using standard barcode scanners at retail outlets or through smartphone cameras using various barcode scanning applications.
What are the costs involved in switching to 2D Barcodes?
Transitioning to 2D barcodes involves minimal costs on our platform. The primary cost is associated with updating your product packaging to include the new barcode.
How will 2D Barcodes benefit my business?
By adopting 2D barcodes, your products will be ready for the future of retail, ensuring compatibility with the latest retail technology. This transition also offers opportunities for enhanced product tracking, better inventory management, and enriched customer engagement through augmented product information.
More questions? Contact Global Barcodes.
