For decades a product's barcode has been a row of bars holding one number. GS1 and the retail industry are moving towards 2D barcodes that can hold more, while keeping the same product number. This page explains the direction in plain terms. It does not replace GS1's own guidance, which is linked at the bottom.
The goal
GS1's implementation guideline states the goal as retail point-of-sale scanning being "globally capable of reading and processing the GTIN" from both linear and 2D barcodes by the end of 2027. In the US it is called Sunrise 2027. It is a readiness goal for the scanning side. It is not a date on which the familiar barcode disappears, and it is not a law that every product must carry a 2D code by then.
Which codes are involved
The guideline lists these options for point of sale:
| Barcode | Data |
|---|---|
| EAN / UPC (linear) | The GTIN, as today |
| GS1 DataBar, POS family (linear) | GS1 element strings |
| GS1 DataMatrix (2D) | GS1 element strings |
| Data Matrix (2D) | GS1 Digital Link URI |
| QR Code (2D) | GS1 Digital Link URI |
So an ordinary QR code is not automatically acceptable at a till: it has to carry a GS1 Digital Link URI, be printed to the specified quality and be read by software set up for it. See QR code vs Data Matrix.
What the print has to look like
The guideline sets the 2D X-dimensions (the width of one module) at 1.5 times the linear barcode values, which gives a minimum of 0.396 mm, a target of 0.495 mm and a maximum of 0.990 mm for general retail POS. A QR code needs a blank border of 4 modules on every side. The guideline also notes that a logo or image placed over a code uses up error correction and reduces scanning reliability. These values are for the general retail POS application; other environments have their own tables in the GS1 General Specifications.
What changes on the pack
- The product number stays. The GTIN is the same number whether it is in a linear barcode or in a 2D code.
- A 2D code can hold more. A GS1 Digital Link can also carry a batch or lot, a serial number or an expiry date.
- The same code can open information. A QR code with a Digital Link is a web address, so a phone can open a product page from it.
- Both can sit on the pack for a while. GS1 describes a transition in which packs carry the existing barcode and a 2D code.
What a small seller or maker should check
- Ask your GS1 member organisation what applies to your country and product category. They publish the implementation guidance.
- Ask your retail customers whether and when they want 2D codes on supplied products.
- Ask your packaging printer about the space, print quality and finish needed for a 2D code.
- Keep the existing barcode until you are told otherwise.
If you already have GTINs, you can write them into a correct address with the GS1 Digital Link generator. Test every printed code with real scanners before a print run.
Sources
Last updated and checked against the sources on 13 October 2026. Standards change, so check the source for the current wording.
- GS1: 2D Barcodes at Retail Point-of-Sale Implementation Guideline
- GS1: 2D Barcode Colour & Quality Guide
- GS1 General Specifications
- GS1: Paving the way for the global migration to 2D barcodes
- GS1 Canada: 2D barcodes
Frequently asked questions
Is the EAN / UPC barcode going away?
Not on a fixed date. GS1's goal is for tills to be able to read 2D codes as well; the existing barcode stays in use during the transition.
Do I have to change my packaging?
That depends on your retailers and your category. Ask your GS1 member organisation and your retail customers.
Do I need new product numbers?
No. The GTIN stays the same; it is only written in a different code.