In times of cellular data and Wi-Fi, we expect to have full network connection anywhere, anytime. However, even modern internet infrastructure can be limited by geographical or structural obstacles.
Unreliable internet connectivity is frustrating when it happens during critical data capture scenarios. Especially during barcode scanning.
Many barcode scanner applications rely on a constant internet connection to either transfer user data or metadata to a server, mainly for real-time database synchronization and integration with backend systems. In areas with poor or no cellular data or Wi-Fi, this dependency on network connectivity creates operational bottlenecks and frustrates users.
Offline barcode scanners are the solution.
They ensure operational continuity by capturing, processing, and temporarily storing barcode data directly on the device, regardless of network availability.
In this article, you will learn more about the technology behind this type of barcode scanners and what to consider when choosing a solution.
Why offline barcode scanning is crucial for modern operations
Offline barcode scanning enables users to overcome connectivity challenges in critical environments.
Three major operational applications profit from offline scanning:
- Large warehouses with dead zones: Construction materials like concrete, metal ductwork, or specialized glass can block or reflect radio signals. Combined with improper network design, this causes connectivity issues, disrupting operations and productivity. During inventory management, cycle counting, and asset tracking, offline barcode scanning replaces error-prone manual data entry with accurate, automated workflows.
- Remote field services: Field technicians and delivery drivers often encounter spotty connectivity. Offline scanners ensure uninterrupted service delivery and accurate data capture during work order completion, Proof of Delivery (POD) scanning, and asset tracking.
- Temporary event sites: At festival sites, Wi-Fi networks are often overloaded or unreliable. Offline scanners for ticket validation, attendee check-in, or asset tracking prevent bottlenecks, ensure smooth entry, and provide accurate attendance data.
In all these applications, a lack of internet connection causes halted workflows, forces delayed or prolonged data entry and can result in the loss of critical information. Barcodes have to be scanned again, or the data has to be transferred manually. The resulting time loss and potential data inaccuracies can lead to additional costs.
Offline barcode scanning is crucial to avoid this scenario.
The technology behind offline barcode scanning: on-device processing
Modern offline barcode scanners use on-device processing, where scanning and data extraction happens directly on the device itself. The scans are saved locally when there’s no connection and are automatically transferred once connectivity is restored, ensuring uninterrupted performance.
You don’t need expensive dedicated scanners to use this technology. In fact, ordinary smartphones are capable of on-device processing. The evolution of System-on-a-Chip (SoC) technology, where CPU, GPU, memory controller, and other processors like the NPU are put onto a single, tiny chip, has significantly enhanced the processing capabilities of modern smart devices.
After the scan, the locally stored data can be transferred to backend systems, such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
Typically, this happens through API calls. Once a scan is complete and fully processed into structured key-value pairs, the app triggers an API call to the backend system – as soon as the device reconnects to a network.
Choosing your offline scanner solution
Several barcode scanner types can use on-device processing and local storage:
- Fixed-mount scanners: Designed for automation, they enable hands-free scanning. They are commonly found on assembly lines, conveyor belts, and in retail checkouts. Some newer models are essentially smart devices with cameras.
- Dedicated industrial scanners: Some rugged barcode scanners have on-device capabilities. Ruggedized devices are built to withstand harsh conditions like warehouses, manufacturing plants, and logistics operations.
- Smart devices (smartphones and tablets): Smart devices can be used virtually anywhere for barcode scanning. Ruggedized smartphones withstand harsh conditions, and even ordinary smart devices are, in effect, powerful miniature computers. Modern barcode scanner software containing machine-learning algorithms and neural networks turns them into enterprise-grade offline barcode scanners.
While the rugged design and extended battery life of hardware scanners is advantageous in many environments, the dedicated devices are often costly and can only be used for a single purpose.
Mobile offline scanners, such as smartphones, leverage existing hardware with often lower initial costs that can be used for multiple purposes. In addition, most users are generally familiar with smart devices and use them with ease.
All these mobile scanners need is a feature-rich app capable of offline data collection.
Essential features for your offline barcode scanner app
For seamless offline barcode scanning, your app should have the following features:
- Broad barcode support: Many workflows contain more than one barcode type. The app should be able to scan all common 1D and 2D barcodes, such as QR codes. In addition, it must be able to read even damaged or blurry barcodes in low lighting, common scenarios in warehouses or field services.
- Seamless integration with systems: To grant frictionless operations, the app must be compatible with your backend systems and seamlessly integrate into them.
- User-friendly features: Features such as user guidance or scan confirmation help users achieve accurate scans even in offline environments.
- Workflow-enhancing features: With features such as multi-scanning, users can scan more than one barcode at the same time, which speeds up workflows.
Integrate offline barcode scanning into your app with Scanbot SDK
With the Scanbot Barcode Scanner SDK, you can integrate powerful neural networks, computer vision, and machine learning algorithms directly into your mobile or web app for seamless offline barcode scanning.
Experience for yourself how the SDK’s on-device processing performs in our free barcode scanner demo apps. Simply turn off your device’s internet connection after launching the app and choosing the scanning mode, then you can test how fast our SDK performs offline barcode scanning.
For more information, please contact our solution experts at sdk@scanbot.io.
