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A talking code is an extended QR code for augmented reality. The code can be read with any QR scanner. Then, a video message (AR hologram) is projected onto the code in the user's web browser.

A talking code consists of four tiles: a QR code and three AR markers. The AR markers enable the web app to track the position of the code in real time, even if parts of the code are occluded in the camera image.

You can print a talking code on an object of your choice (e.g., a postcard or product packaging) to create a link between the physical object and the virtual world. This works in a similar way to a conventional QR code. However, the link between the two worlds is closer and longer-lasting as your message "lives" on the object in the form of an AR hologram. Also, you can add a web link to your hologram to redirect the users of your talking code to your own website, for example.

Talking codes are great for delivering your message in a very personal way. But if you just want to provide a quick way to copy a link, you should use an ordinary QR code instead. Talking codes are not suitable for environments where potential users are in a hurry or might even put themselves in danger while viewing the hologram. (e.g., if the code has been placed on a subway car).

The talkingco.de app will run directly in your web browser. That means you do not need to download a native app for your operating system. However, you can install the web app to access the features of talkingco.de directly from your home screen. To do so in Chrome for Android, tap the three-dot icon and then tap Install, or in Safari on iPhone, tap the share icon and then tap Add to Home Screen.

The web app generally runs in any modern web browser (e.g., Chrome for Android or Safari on iPhone). However, the browser must support WebAssembly and have access to the device's camera. Also, the device must have enough processing power to display the hologram smoothly. If the web app does not work, you should first try using a different web browser or device. Customers can also write an email to mail@talkingco.de.

You can scan a talking code either with an arbitrary QR scanner or with the integrated scanner of talkingco.de (scan code). After that, in your web browser, an AR hologram will be projected onto the code which you can start by clicking the play button.

That's really easy. Log in, tap Create code, record a short video message, and upload it. Your talking code will be created for you immediately. If you do not have an account yet, you can sign up now for free.

You should hold your device vertically (portrait mode) and make sure you have a neutral background. For example, stand in front of a blank wall. Your head and possibly your upper body should be visible throughout the video. Also, make sure that your head is close to the top of the frame, but not cropped.

To download your talking code, you must first log in. Then, tap Manage codes, select a code, and tap Download code. You can download your talking code either as a pixel-based PNG file or as a vector-based SVG file. It is recommended that you use vector graphics for printing.

You can use the integrated PDF generator of talkingco.de to create business cards with your personal AR hologram. Log in first. Then, tap Manage codes, select a code, and tap Download code. Fill out the form below Business cards generator and tap Create business cards to start the PDF download.

You can use the integrated PDF generator of talkingco.de to create a greeting card with your personal AR hologram. Log in first. Then, tap Manage codes, select a code, and tap Download code. Under Greeting card generator, select a cover image, enter a title and your text, and tap Create greeting card to start the PDF download.

To add a web link to a hologram, you must be a PLUS, PRO, or ENTERPRISE member. You can add your link either when creating the talking code or afterwards as follows: Log in first. Then, tap Manage codes, select a code, and tap Edit. Select the checkbox next to Add link and enter a call-to-action (e.g., "Visit our website") and the link address. After that, tap Save. The link will become visible to the users of your talking code a few seconds after starting the hologram.

To change the hologram video of a talking code afterwards, you must be a PRO or ENTERPRISE member. Log in first. Then, tap Manage codes, select a code, and tap Edit. Under Update hologram, tap Update now and record a new video message.

The name will not be visible to the users of your talking code. To rename your code, you must first log in. Then, tap Manage codes, select a code, and tap Edit. Enter a new internal name and tap Rename.

To delete your talking code, you must first log in. Then, tap Manage codes, select a code, and tap Delete. This cannot be undone. But you can always create a new talking code.

You can, of course, design your printing product to suit your own requirements. But you normally should not change the talking code itself (everything within the black-blue frame). In principle, it is possible to replace the top left AR marker with your own logo. However, this is not recommended because it affects the real-time detection of the code. You should print your code on white or light colored paper.

The optimal size of your talking code depends on the printed material and the assumed scan distance. But for a perfect result, the size of the printed code should be no less than 40 mm x 40mm. In any case, you should test your talking code thoroughly after printing.

As a PRO or ENTERPRISE member, you always know how many times your talking codes have been viewed. You will get statistics about the daily views of your talking codes within the last 30 days and about the monthly views within the last 24 months.