Connected Packaging

Our world is becoming more and more connected. We seem to use the Internet for just about everything and connected packages have become all the rage over the last few years.

We have gone from a product’s package that is simply made to protect the item inside and provide some information, to packages that can connect with the Internet, provide digital instructions, and give customers special coupons.

In this post, we will break down what exactly connected packaging and what the three main types on connected packaging are.

What is Connected Packaging?

Connected packaging is an overarching term to describe packages that have smart capabilities. It is a way for customers to learn more about a brand and product, but also for the company to learn more about their customers as well.

Connected packaging is powered by IoT technology, which has also been evolving at a steady rate over the last few years.

At the most basic form, QR codes and RFID codes are examples of connected packaging, but we have some much farther and more advanced since these connected packaging technologies. These codes are designed for customers to scan a barcode with their phone.

From there, the code brings the customer to a special app or website where they can find heaps of information about the product, how to use it, more information about the brand itself, special promotions, coupons, and so much more. The possibilities are endless.

Connected packaging can help the customer learn about the brand and product much easier than having to find a website themselves to access the information. It also helps the brand learn more about their customers usage habits, buying habits, what they look for in a product, etc. Connected packaging provides a two-way relationship between brand and customers that would otherwise be difficult to develop.

What Are the Three Types of Connected Packaging?

Although all types of connected packaging essentially aim for the same result, there are differences between each type. The three main types of connected packaging are: active packaging, interactive packaging, and intelligent packaging.

Active Packaging

Active packaging is designed to help customers engage with products and easily learn more information about the products from their packaging. It is also made for customers to access special and exclusive offers from the brand.

Active packaging uses RFID and QR codes, so customers can scan the package’s code with their phone to draw up all of the information from the package. This type of technology is quite simple and does not require any highly complex technologies. Active packaging is the oldest form of connected packaging we have today.

Interactive Packaging

A step above active packaging is interactive packaging. This type of packaging is more technologically complex and advanced. These packages can actually communicate information to the company and to the customer.

For instance, a toy’s package may be able to let the customer when the battery life of the toy is about to expire so the customer can replace the battery or buy a different product before the toy actually dies. This type of packaging interacts directly with the customer, so they can make informed decisions.

Furthermore, this form of connected packaging can also help prevent counterfeit products.

Intelligent Packaging

Lastly, we have intelligent packaging. Intelligent packaging in not just able to send information, but it can also receive information. The package contains tiny sensors that is uses for this type of interaction.

The tech in this packaging either comes from FRID or NFC technology, a form of two-way communication. This is the most complex and advanced form of connected packaging and tend to be very expensive for brands to use on their packages. However, the amount of information and value this type of packaging creates for brands is often worth the higher price tag.

Conclusion

Connected packaging, in all forms, has connected our world more than ever before. As the technology for packaging continues to advance and become more complex, we can expect the packages our products come in to be just as advanced as the tech inside each package.