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# Scannable Impromptu Graffiti
'Graffiti Codes' Lets Users Encode Physical Space with Data

By Alexander Lam | Published 2013-06-10 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/graffiti-codes
References: [psfk](http://www.psfk.com/2013/06/scannable-graffiti-mit-media-lab.html) & [viral.media.mit.edu](http://viral.media.mit.edu/projects/graffiti/)

In order to allow humans to hand draw images with the same function as a [QR code](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/qr-shorty), members of [MIT Media Lab](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/httpswwwmediamitedu) created 'Graffiti Codes.' Researchers Andrew Lippman and Jeremy Rubin worked to let users encode physical surfaces with data without having to print anything out. Using only a marker or some spray paint, you can [draw out a code](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sketch2appio) while Graffiti Codes works to guide you. Currently, the code can only be drawn effectively on flat surfaces.

Instead of using your phone's camera capabilities to scan the code, Graffiti Codes requires that you use the accelerometer. Your phone is able to access the stored data just by tracing over the path. The accelerometer stores a digital image of the path in order to convert it into a link to a webpage.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 3.5/10
- Popularity: 44% | Activity: 53% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Mobile](https://www.trendhunter.com/mobile)

## Key Themes

### Key Themes Behind This Trend

- **Hand-drawn QR Codes:** The trend of hand-drawn QR codes allows users to encode physical surfaces with data without the need for printed materials.
- **Alternative Data Encoding:** The trend of alternative data encoding methods, such as Graffiti Codes, provides disruptive innovation opportunities in the field of information transfer and interaction.
- **Accelerometer Integration:** The trend of integrating accelerometer technology for data access and conversion opens up new possibilities for interactive experiences.

### Where This Applies

- **Marketing and Advertising:** The marketing and advertising industry can leverage hand-drawn QR codes to create interactive campaigns and provide unique consumer experiences.
- **Art and Design:** The art and design industry can explore alternative data encoding methods like Graffiti Codes to blur the boundaries between physical and digital artworks.
- **Mobile Technology:** The mobile technology industry can capitalize on accelerometer integration to enhance user experiences and create innovative applications that rely on motion-based interactions.

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- [AI-Enhanced QR Codes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/qr-code-barcode.md)
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- [Dynamic QR Management](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/qr-code-developer.md)