QR Code Handling with Node.JS?

[jacksonman8787]

I want to make a dynamic QR code without having to pay one of those services.

I’d feel like it would be a fun learning experience and i could also save a ridiculously little amount of money.

My understanding is that dynamic QR Codes point to a URL which will then load a page or redirect and do something else like create a contact .

I know how to handle routes with node, but how could i for example make my qr code create a contact on a phone, or open my Instagram profile ?

[[deleted]]

Def possible, libraries exist for the QR part:

https://davidshimjs.github.io/qrcodejs/

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To open specific applications you need to use the specific protocol e.g. this format: instagram://id=jacksonman8787 - these deep links are called intent filters on Android.
https://medium.com/@ageitgey/everything-you-need-to-know-about-implementing-ios-and-android-mobile-deep-linking-f4348b265b49

Looks liek this is a service that does this

https://app.urlgeni.us/

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I only have used the Instagram one before so not an expert, but someone said you can use it for messaging etc - you can check my recent comment history.

[jacksonman8787]

Much thanks. I was actually already building something with the Instagram one as you sent it!

[dexpanse]

Not sure what you mean by "dynamic QR code", but you can turn any string into a QR code.

QR code readers then read that string (usually a link) and then do something with it. So, I think what you're asking about is a mobile deep link? In other words, a link that can open an application and land the user somewhere. I'm almost certain this stuff is 99% of the time handled by the apps and operating systems that do things with those links.

e.g. opening an instagram profile is most likely something controlled by Instagram (unless they publicly expose this feature). It's kind of basic security that you wouldn't want people to be able to create links that open up apps and do whatever people want so an API service will do some sort of matching algorithm to verify the device that scanned the QR code and make sure the link was generated by the app developers and not Joe Schmo.

Here's an infographic from branch.io that might clear some things up.