Are 2D Barcodes (QR) here to stay?

I don’t know about you, but I’m skeptical when it comes to new technologies. Sure…smartphones with cameras are here to stay, and it’s pretty simple to install an app that allows you to take a picture of a 2D barcode, then let it take you to where it wants to go.

But is there a place for QR other than in the retail situation, where you can get a free mp3 download from a music store, or a quick link to a product you’re interested in?

I’m beginning to get convinced that there may be practical uses for these “quick access” codes. I recently ran across a website which will allow you to generate a number of different codes for different uses – for free. It will let me create a 2D barcode which contains my contact information, which, when snapped by a smartphone, imports my info into the smartphone contact database – great for the back of a business card (who wants to enter the info by hand, or buy a 100 dollar scanner?), or on literature at a trade show. I can create marketing codes for clients, which will take them to a promotional page on their website, which might offer 15 percent off on the latest widget, or give them access to services literature.

If you’re scratching your head at this point, and saying “What the hell is he talking about?”, check out some definitions:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code

Here’s what iMedia Connection thinks:

http://www.imediaconnection.com/content/28604.asp

I’d like to know if you’re using them, and how you’re using them.