Create your own QR codes in Ubuntu with Qreator

QR codes are clever images that can be used to share links and other information with mobile devices using their built-in cameras. Qreator is a useful Ubuntu app that can create QR codes for web addresses, text, geolocation and even the details for your wireless network.

Installation is easy. The Download now button should load the Qreator page in the Ubuntu Software Centre. Otherwise, click on the Software Centre, search for qreator and then click on Install.

The interface is very simple with four icons for the different kind of QR codes. The code updates automatically as you update the text in the URL or Text tools. The URL tool can be used for either http or https addresses.

The Geolocation tool uses the location that Ubuntu thinks you are at. If it isn't quite right, it is possible to move the map preview and click on a location to use it for the QR code. It's a shame there's no way to enter a postcode or even edit the latitude and longitude but you can zoom in and out with the mouse wheel to find an exact location.

The Wifi tool is very clever. You can specify either WPA or WEP security and set the SSID and password. It is possible to reveal the text of the password to make sure you don't make any mistakes. This is an easy way to share complicated passwords with friends when they come over and avoids the inconvenience of trying to enter complicated passwords on a small screen.

The output buttons are a little hard to find at the bottom left of the program window. The two buttons are used to either save the finished QR code as a png image or to save it to the clipboard to use with other software.