Packages include a DWCode, a barcode offered in collaboration with Digimarc Corp., providing brand-authorized product information such as marketing, pricing, special offers, coupons, product attributes, instruction videos and additional shopping assistance via smartphone. GS1 US members can begin implementing GS1 US Mobile Scan by obtaining DWCodes through a new online portal. According to GS1 US, the tool also offers retailers improved inventory accuracy and faster checkout at point of sale. The packages contain the same Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) data currently carried in a product’s UPC barcode. Clerks can scan packages with optical POS scanners without first having to orient the barcode to the reader. In a related announcement, GS1, the global standards organization, has launched GDSN Major Release 3, an update to the Global Data Synchronization standard. GDSN is a networked product data-sharing system managed by the GDSN standard. Containing more than 20 million products, it ensures the accuracy of information exchanged among network trading partners, such as pricing and product data.
