Using A Rotational Angle Between A QR Code’s Inherent Orientation And An Icon: Technical

The application underlying the discussed decision concerns a method for retrieving information from a server using a QR code, where icons arranged around the QR code represent different information items selectable by a user. The key feature discussed by the Board was the use of the rotational angle between a QR code’s inherent orientation (derived from its Position Detection Patterns) and a user-selected icon as an additional machine-readable input parameter for information retrieval. The Board considered this feature to be technical, contrary to the examining division’s finding that the method was merely an abstract information retrieval idea devoid of any technical consideration.

Here are the practical takeaways from the decision: T 0418/21 (Retrieving information using a QR code/GSPI) of 16 December 2025, of the Technical Board of Appeal 3.5.01.