What is the spec for formatting data in QR codes? I can not find it anywhere

Question

I'm specifically asking if, and what, is the specification for formatting the text inside a QR code - not how to generate a code (which I can do).

I need to put hCard data into a QR code, however I don't know how to mark the QR code as VCF data (versus URL, text, etc) so the decoder knows what to do.

All the info I've seen online has to do with generating the QR code, not formatting the data inside.

Answer 1

Who says you have to pay for this info? just go to this page http://qrcodenet.codeplex.com/ and scroll to the bottom REFERENCES section and you should find a free download like tited 4. ISO/IEC 18004:2006(E) - QR code specification ISOIEC 18004_2006Cor 1_2009.pdf

Answer 2

There is no official specification for this -- the QR code spec does not say anything about the contents. Everything I know about the commonly-used and de facto formats and conventions is summarized in this wiki: https://github.com/zxing/zxing/wiki/Barcode-Contents

Answer 3

See http://www.denso-wave.com/qrcode/qrstandard-e.html and http://www.denso-wave.com/qrcode/aboutqr-e.html

QR Code is a kind of 2-D (two-dimensional) symbology developed by Denso Wave (a division of Denso Corporation at the time) and released in 1994 with the primary aim of being a symbol that is easily interpreted by scanner equipment. ... QR Code is open in the sense that the specification of QR Code is disclosed and that the patent right owned by Denso Wave is not exercised.

from http://www.denso-wave.com/qrcode/qrstandard-e.html:

QR Code is established as an ISO (ISO/IEC18004) standard. QR Code specification can, therefore, be purchased from this organization. Please seach by inputting ISO No.18004 to "Search and ISO Catalogue". http://www.iso.ch/iso/en/prods-services/ISOstore/store.html

Answer 4

In the past I have found information at http://www.nttdocomo.co.jp/english/service/imode/make/content/barcode/function/, a page which I can not trace (easily?) anymore.

Answer 5

See http://www.onbarcode.com/qr_code/ for helpful info - both about encoding and generating, and several libraries to use as well.

Answer 6

The official spec is available here from iso.org, but you have to pay for it.