The patch of irregular vertical lines that revolutionised checking out at the supermarket and facilitated the globalisation of retail is turning 50. But as the barcode celebrates its birthday on ...

The printed barcode with its vertical black lines has made modern life possible. Created over four decades ago, its designer had no idea what an impact it would have years later. Shockingly he didn't ...

But as the barcode celebrates its birthday on Monday, its days might be numbered as it faces competition from the younger QR code, the information-filled squares used in smartphones. The trademark ...