The development of an app, a browser or, in this case, an operating system like Microsoft Windows 10, is bound to have bugs and glitches. Ever since their inception, tool providers not only have to think how to deliver the best software and enhance it via patches, but they also have to figure out how to communicate a specific issue in a way that doesn’t hurt the overall user experience.
Enter the age of the cute image next to the title “Something went wrong”; an error smoothen by the use of imagery that connotes that not all is lost and users shouldn’t get mad… only grin a little bit.
But making the problem less of an ordeal does not make things better entirely. There has to be access to some kind of assistance or an immediate solution. Users need interaction in order to solve the issue at hand. And guess what: QR codes can help achieve this.
Are you a Windows 10 user? Well, you may have encountered (here’s hoping that you didn’t) this screen.
The infamous Blue Screen of Death. Frowning face aside, Windows has always taken care of its user base when encountering a problem. This example will help you understand how QR codes can be implemented to that effect.
Windows’ newest support strategy utilizes the power of QR codes. Since the search for a solution regarding a specific issue can be cumbersome, endless even due to the amount of forums or personal advice, Windows has opted to include QR codes to help the users get quick results regarding the problem at hand. As of now, the QR code points to windows.com/stopcode, a landing page that explains what the BSOD is all about. In the future, the concept could expand to provide solutions to specific problems.
At first it was kind of funny to see how people reacted to Window’s use of QR codes. This reddit thread, for instance, cleverly recounts the misadventures of some users who sadly experienced the BSOD. But as amusing as this may be, there is a purpose to its inception, so…
How does it work?
It’s quite simple: whenever the BSOD displays, get your smartphone and scan the QR code using a QR reader. Most smartphones nowadays come equipped with one already preinstalled, but if yours is not there, you may want to download it for free. There are some QR code readers that work only on specific operating systems such as Android or iPhone. To make things easier for you, here’s our top picks for best and most effective QR readers for each operating system.
Android QR Code Reader:
Barcode Scanner
i-nigma QR & Barcode Scanner
NeoReader QR & Barcode Scanner
QR Droid Code Scanner
ScanLife Barcode & QR Reader
iPhone QR Code Reader:
QR Reader for iPhone
QR Code Reader and Scanner
Zapper
Windows QR Code Reader:
UpCode
QuickMark
Blackberry QR Code Reader:
QR Code
QR Code Scanner
It is important to mention as well that when scanning the BSOD QR code, users should always check that it redirects to an official Windows website.
What have we learned from Windows
Windows’ use of QR codes proves once more the relevance of this technology regarding its instant access to information and support. Not only that, but it also works as a counter argument to those who believe that QR codes are not worth implementing. Let’s reflect on this; if Windows chose this as means to get to its users fast and help them while utilizing their newest iteration, what keeps you from putting a spin on QR codes? Endless possibilities await, as more applications are discovered. Go ahead!
CREATE YOUR QR CODE NOW
The post Crash Your Windows 10 & Win a QR Code BSOD appeared first on uQR.me.