Looking at the tendencies which should be prescribed as unavoidable in the development of the packaging sector, labeling technologies are viewed as one of the major components of enhancement of track and trace strategies and their potential effect on client's perception of the product. Some of these developments are the following: RFID, smart labels or the incorporation of QR code. These technologies are altering the methods of managing the products' life cycle by observing and regulating them and they are the idea of the connected packaging.
Radio-frequency Identification (RFID)
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) uses electromagnetic fields to assist identify the objects that are tagged. RFID technology has virtually three components which form the system which are the tag or label, the reader, and the antenna. Due to this, RFID tags can be installed on labels and are therefore significant to new label designs that transform the packaging system. In contrast with normal barcodes, RFID tags can possess much more information and do not demand direct visibility for that information to be read, thus being extremely useful for areas that require efficiency and precision.
QR codes can be considered as one of the most effective approaches for many brands
Compared to other tools, QR codes can be considered as one of the most effective approaches for many brands. RFID and NFC possess the more refined functions, including the ability to make payments without even coming into contact with the package and the functionality used in the present day packages with better security systems.
NFC and RFID Technology
Specifically, technologies based on the near field communication and radio frequency identification principles are often considered together, but the application protocols can be different. NFC is generally used for communication with another device over a small range while RFID communication can take place over large ranges. They are applied to make smart-labels through which it is possible to achieve smooth interaction between objects and the purchaser. Thus, the implementation of NFC and RFID in labeling is a step forward towards the future of smart packaging to get better facilities and brand recognition among consumers.
Leveraging Technology in Label Printing
The prospects of connected packages are therefore highly dependent on the developments made in RFID label printers, and other technologies used in label printing. Some of the developments in this area have put it in a position where it can manufacture better RFID and smart labels in greater quantity and cheaper price. Global RFID label printer such as Honeywell PM45 Industrial Printer and the Zebra ZT421 RFID Label Printer are the latest RFID label printers that support the production of reliable RFID smart labels.
