AMARILLO, TEXAS -- You may have noticed something a little strange looking on some print or computer generated ads.

It looks a little like a barcode but it's actually a 'QR code', which stands for quick response. It's a way for retailers to get extra information to the consumer.

For example, as you drive around town searching for a house, you might notice something new beside the "for sale" sign. It's the same principle as a bar code, but instead of designating a price, it's any information the seller or any retailer wants you to know.

Invented in 1994 in Japan as a way to track inventory, they've developed into an advertising tool, and they're here in the Panhandle, according to Janna Kiehl at the Better Business Bureau.

"Whatever the business wants you to know (they can put out.) Maybe there's a special that they're promoting and so they can change them as well, you can change them up," said Kiehl. "It's easy. It's a fast way for the business to get a message out to its customers."

Keller Williams Realtors says it's the first real estate agent in Amarillo to use QR codes. Eventually, you'll be able to pull up to a house, scan the QR code, and all the information about the house is instantly at your fingertips.

"What they can find from us is a map of the property, photos, all the photos, they can text the agent directly, they can call directly, just push the button, highlighting the number, email it to themselves or to a friend," said Caryn Prall, Director of Business Development at Keller Williams in Amarillo. "They can do it right from their mobile website."

Many other businesses around the area are starting to use the matrixes in print and computer generated ads, business cards and just about anything a consumer might look at and need more information on.

The QR codes also have fun applications.  For example, Karl on YouTube who got a QR tattoo, and when the iPhone is placed over it, it becomes instant animation. Check out that video here.

Retailers are hoping it's more than just a gimmick to pass along information, and since they were developed in Japan more than 15 years ago, it's looks like they're here to stay.

Generating your own is simple and free online and you can download a free QR Code Reader free on line as well for any smart phone.

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