Google has announced that they have begun to send out QR Code decals to businesses in over 9,000 towns in the USA to simplify learning about them through your mobile device with barcode scanners and “Favorite Places on Google”.

Each window decal has a unique bar code, known as a QR code that you can scan with any of hundreds of mobile devices — including iPhone, Android-powered phones, BlackBerry and more — to take you directly to that business’s Place Page on your mobile phone. With your mobile phone and these new decals, you can easily go up to a storefront and immediately find reviews, get a coupon if the business is offering one or star a business as a place you want to remember for the future. Soon, you’ll be able to leave a review on the mobile page as well, just like on your desktop.

They are not releasing a QR Code scanning application of their own. Instead, they are suggesting third-party applications like BeeTagg and NeoReader. I would also recommend trying out ScanLife.

I wonder how many businesses will actually use the Google window decals. I think it would be incredibly useful, especially if you’re just strolling around town and pass by a business you’d like to learn more about.

If you spot any and scan them let me know how it worked for you in the comments. For more info check out Google’s announcement.