2D Barcodes: So much potential

Potential is the word I use to describe the 2D Barcode, physical world hyperlinking, burgeoning industry. It really makes sense. Just the idea that you can buy, or learn more about whatever you want with the click of a cellphone button is so swanky and futuristic. People in Japan have been scanning 2D Barcodes for years now, and relatively no one has in the US. It's not that hard to believe because the US has a reputation for lagging a little behind in cellphone technology, but I am surprised no one has launched a really tremendous campaign using 2D Barcodes. Recently, Scanbuy and Sprint teamed up, placing Scanbuy's EZcode's in both Billboard and Car & Driver Magazine. This is definitely a big step in the right direction and hopefully the PR follow-up will continue to fuel discussions. However, I think something bigger is needed, something so big that Jay Leno, SNL, and every YouTube wannabe spoofs it. There needs to be a big celebrity endorsement. Whether it's a direct promotion e.g. (Jay-Z does a 30 second spot) or something more product placement-esque where Brett Michaels buys his contestants' flowers through a "Joe's Flower Shop" 2D Barcode tag on Rock of Love. There are so many impulsive purchasers in the world that can't wait to find another avenue to spend money. Even if the promotions are "over the top" just getting people talking about this technology will help adoption and usage. However, banking on "adequate carrier support" might be more a dream than reality.