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QR codes

QR Codes are 2-dimensional barcodes that can encode various types of information, which can be read using a cell phone or other camera-based devices. Gravatar provides simple QR codes that contain a link to the main profile page for the requested profile.

Base Request – with an Email Address

Follow these steps to request a QR code for a profile associated with an email address:

1. Create a valid email hash: Use a SHA256 hash of the email address associated with the Gravatar profile.

2. Build the URL: Construct the URL to request the profile page using the email hash:

https://gravatar.com/{hash}

3. Append .qr to the URL: Indicate that you want the results in QR Code format by appending .qr to the URL:

https://gravatar.com/{hash}.qr

Example URL:

https://gravatar.com/27205e5c51cb03f862138b22bcb5dc20f94a342e744ff6df1b8dc8af3c865109.qr

When you request this URL in your browser, you will receive a QR Code image in PNG format that links directly to the profile page when scanned by a QR-compatible device.

Requesting a QR Code with a Username

Follow these steps to request a QR code for a profile associated with a username:

1. Know the username:
Obtain the username from the URL of their profile:

https://gravatar.com/username)

2. Append .qr to that URL:

Indicate that you want the results in QR Code format by appending .qr to the URL:

https://https://gravatar.com/ronnie.qr

Parameters and Requests Options

You can customize the QR code output with the following parameters:

  • size (or s): Specify the edge length of the QR code image in pixels. As QR codes are square, you only need to provide one value.
  • type: Choose what to display in the center of the QR code:
    • blank or default: No logo or avatar.
    • user: User’s avatar.
    • gravatar: Gravatar logo.
  • version: Select the style of the QR code:
    • blank or 1: Standard QR code.
    • 3: Modern “small dots” QR code.

Example

Embedding a QR code in an img tag:

<img src="https://gravatar.com/27205e5c51cb03f862138b22bcb5dc20f94a342e744ff6df1b8dc8af3c865109.qr?type=gravatar&version=3&s=350" />

This example generates a QR code with the Gravatar logo in the center, using the modern small dots style.

Tips

  • Default Size: QR codes default to 80px by 80px if the size parameter is not supplied.
  • Encoded Data: The QR code only encodes a link to the profile page.
  • Compatibility: Modern mobile devices can read QR codes directly from the camera.
  • Profile Data: Profile requests will only resolve for the hash of the primary address on an account. Users may have multiple addresses on a single account, so while a Gravatar image request may return a result, a profile request for the same hash may not.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively generate and customize QR codes for Gravatar profiles.

QR Codes on Event Badges

Imagine transforming every event badge into an interactive networking tool that enhances attendee engagement and simplifies contacts sharing. Gravatar QR Code badges empower developers and event organizers to quickly create interactive badges that boost networking capabilities.

Learn more:
Event networking with QR code badges powered by Gravatar.

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