Frequently asked questions
The short answers to what we are asked most. For the details, the guide explains how to use Pinbloom from the dashboard and the documentation how to integrate it through the API.
The product
What does it mean that a QR code is valid only once?
On the first scan the QR code is valid, and from that moment it is «used». If someone photographs or photocopies it, from the second scan on the app rejects it as already used and shows when it was validated.
Do I need a connection to validate?
Yes, validating needs a connection. But if the network is briefly down, you can keep validating codes: the results are synced with the server as soon as the phone is back online.
What phones do operators need?
Any Android or iOS phone. Whoever receives the QR code does not need to install anything: the app is only for the people who validate. The system requirements are in the guide.
What can I use it for?
Tickets and invitations for events, single-use coupons for shops and promotions, goods pickup, membership cards and bookings: anywhere you need a unique code to check.
Creating and printing
Do I need to know how to design a graphic?
No. You can get just the QR codes, or place them in a graphic from the library. If you already have your own design, with the Business plan you upload your own template. See the printing guide.
Can I put a name, seat or row on each code?
Yes, by uploading a CSV: each row matches one QR code. When the operator scans, they see the code's data right away. How to prepare the file is explained in the guide.
Can I have it printed at a print shop?
Yes: the PDF is vector, ready to print or to send to a print shop. Before printing we check that the placeholders match the CSV columns and that the QR code is readable.
Can I generate codes from my online shop or management system?
Yes, with the API: your system asks for a QR code or a barcode and places it where needed, for example in the order confirmation. Everything is in the documentation.
Operators and control
Can I limit where an operator can validate?
Yes: each operator can validate the QR codes of all collections or only those you choose. See operators in the guide.
How do I know who validated a code?
Every scan is recorded with its outcome: you see who validated a code and when, from each operator's history.
What happens if I cancel or lose a ticket?
You can revoke the QR code: while it is revoked, scanning it is rejected, and you can restore it whenever you want. A QR code that has already been used cannot be revoked. See the QR code statuses.
Pricing and trial
Can I try it for free?
Yes: 14 days of trial, no card, with 50 codes and the Micro plan's features. Then choose the plan you need.
What happens if I run out of QR codes for the month?
You buy the QR codes you need, without changing plan. The ones you buy do not reset at the end of the month: they stay yours until you use them.
Can I test the integration without using my quota?
Yes, with a test key: QR codes are not saved and do not touch your quota. With simulate you can also try outcomes such as «already used» or «expired». See the documentation.
Who handles payments and invoices?
Paddle, our Merchant of Record: it takes care of payments, invoices and taxes, calculated at checkout based on your country. For the details see payments in the guide.
Do you need different volumes?
Bigger events, more operators or special requirements: tell us your numbers and we will prepare a tailored quote, monthly or yearly. Write to us from the contact form.
Data and privacy
Where is my data and how long is it kept?
On servers in the European Union. Retention periods are defined and described in the privacy policy.
What data does the operator see?
Only what you put on the code, for example seat or entrance.