GS1 Digital Link: The Newest in Barcode Standards

Effective May 22, 2025

What is GS1 Digital Link?

GS1 Digital Link is a new format for 2D barcodes (QR codes), which will replace the current 1D EAN/UPC standard in the coming years. Unlike a 1D barcode, which would typically just contain a static product code, GS1 Digital Link barcodes use a standardised URL format that allow digital systems to access a wealth of information about the product.

For technical information, visit the official standards page at GS1.org.

Multi-Purpose Barcodes

Resolvers / redirection services can be used to provide a tailored experience for the specific scan context: a supermarket checkout operator could scan the barcode on a packet of cereal in their point-of-sale system and receive the pricing data, while a consumer could scan the same code on their smartphone and be shown the nutritional information on the website.

Future-Proofing

If a barcode is pointing to a consistently-formatted URL, the online information can be easily updated without needing to redo packaging design.

Enhanced Traceability

GS1 Digital Link provides a standardised format for including item-specific information beyond the URL and GTIN: you can optionally include serial numbers, expiry dates, and batch numbers in the barcode itself to help streamline supply chain processes.

How can I use Digital Link?

GS1 Digital Link provides the potential to dramatically enhance supply chain, warehousing, and retail processes, and to improve consumer experiences.

 – Prevent sale of expired goods at checkout.
 – Dynamic pricing tied to customer loyalty programs.
 – Enhanced recall processes.
 – Return fraud prevention through serial-number tracking.
 – Streamlined consumer warranty registrations.
 – Rapid consumer access to product manuals and help videos.

Does my scanner support it?

Many Zebra devices already in circulation will have firmware updates released via 123Scan  that will introduce GS1 Digital Link support over the course of this summer, and devices shipped from the factory will support GS1 Digital Link out of the box by the end of the year.  

For information on devices from other manufacturers, or if you have any issues enabling GS1 Digital Link on your device, contact us for assistance.