A sample of Visualead’s QR codes with square images that can be scanned by your phone and point you to mobile websites. (Photo : www.techcrunch.com)
Alibaba makes use of Visualead technology to push Blue Star, a new tool that prints out scannable codes for individual packages, with a new QR code alternative which can be used to curb counterfeit sales, according to an article published by techinasia.com.
Alibaba invested in Visualead in January. The Israeli startup was known to make colorful and visually attractive QR codes and Alibaba took advantage of its technology to present a new QR code alternative.
The report said that the new tool can be used to confirm a product's authenticity by scanning a code using the mobile app for Taobao. Brands can customize the images by choosing from a set of templates and link it to their page.
Nevo Alva, Visualead co-founder and CEO, said that Alibaba's Blue Star can only be used on genuine brands sold at Alibaba. But for now, Alva added, Alibaba is providing Blue Star for free, regardless of where the goods will be sold.
According to the article, Visualead is set to announce the launch of a dotless scannable code, completely different from the QR codes with the usual checkerboard superimposed over an image that the company once generated. With the new code, brands can now print images that look a little cleaner, the article added.
The report said that the new QR codes can help curb counterfeit sales on Tmall and Taobao, as the country is having a tough battle on counterfeit goods.
Alibaba has become a regular target of lawsuits involving the sale of fake goods, including claims from Gucci and other well-known brands.
Alibaba's investment in the scannable, tracking codes is seen to help allay consumer fears, the article said.
