CyberMedia Integrates QR Codes with Print Magazine

CyberMedia, a giant publisher in India announced on Friday that its flagship magazine, PCQuest, will deeply integrate QR codes into its March print issue.

The idea of bringing QR codes into the magazine is simple. QR codes provide rich multimedia experience to print content. It is the first time readers are able to interact with rich media on print content and advertisements.

The only barrier, however, is that users are required to have QR code readers on their phone or laptop (with Internet access) to read the code. From the advertiser point of view, QR codes add an intimate branding experience through simple technology. For example, a simple scan on the QR codes could allow readers to view a short video or a TV commercial. CyberMedia recently introduced this integration to the public to ride the 3G waves in India.

“We believe that timing the launch of QR codes with the 3G rollout will allow readers to move smoothly onto the next level of interactivity and convergence for print media,” said Pradeep Gupta, Chairman of CyberMedia in a statement.

“We expect this advertising and marketing innovation to lead to the rejuvenation of print–integrating print with rich multimedia on the mobile,” Mr. Gupta added.

The idea seems well received. CyberMedia reports high interest from advertisers and media agencies: PCQuest will introduce QR codes advertisements starting from its April issue. Advertisers are allowed to use QR codes to point readers to video clips, multimedia segments, additional information or data capture forms, or simply, contact information for sales people.

“QR codes can help an advertiser measure response, which has always been a challenge in print advertising. They can also be linked to social networking sites like Facebook,” said Prasanto K Roy, Chief editor of PCQuest.

Also catch: QR Codes: The Next Big Thing in Social Marketing? (It includes a video on QR code advertising)