You can't fail to have noticed the abundance of Quick Response (QR) codes on products and services these days. They appear on everything from soda cans to billboards, websites and TV adverts.

The curious little pixellated codes have become a great way for companies to offer information to anybody with a smartphone and QR reader. Scanning the image can take you to websites or download information at the touch of a button.

Nissan has announced that it is the first car company to offer QR codes on window stickers across its lineup, starting with 2012 models. The 2012 Nissan Altima and 2012 Nissan Sentra were the first models to get the codes back in June, and further models will get the enhanced stickers from now on.

Nissan's QR codes will offer a wealth of information for smartphone users. Scanning the QR will allow you to access specific vehicle information, image and video galleries, incentive offers, dealer inventory and request finance quotes.

You'll also be able to join Nissan's mailing list and access dealer location support.

Jon Brancheau, vice president of Marketing at Nissan North America, says the QR codes will improve customers' decision making and improve the car choosing process. Jon says the codes will "help sales personnel make a more effective presentation, as well as providing customers with a ‘silent salesperson’ if they are shopping the lot after hours.”

Early feedback from Altima customers has been positive, with many customers following up QR code-accessed information at the dealership.

We expect other carmakers to follow pretty soon - the best technology makes life easier, and making the carbuying process can only be a good thing.

[Nissan North America]