Ontario Covid vaccine proof has 2 QR codes

Two codes for one record seems quite unexpected, and the density of those codes is impressive. That’s a lot of data, and some of that (the excess) data should probably be stored on the server somewhere.

What to do? There’s an app for that, apparently. See if that app works better:

https://www.wsps.ca/important-updates/october-15-vaccine-verification-app-now-available-for-download

Alternatively, there is a file download path that can be available, and mentioned here:

Add verifiable COVID-19 vaccination information to Apple Wallet and Health - Apple Support (CA)

There’s also a surprisingly complex sequence suggested for using the QR code, using the Shortcuts app:

https://news.ontario.ca/en/backgrounder/1000980/using-your-enhanced-vaccine-certificate-frequently-asked-questions

Some technical info, FWIW: I’m not sure why Ontario is seeking to so much data in the QR code. The densest QR code is 40L. QR code 40L stores about 1.8K characters. 40L has seven dot-squares ▣ horizontally and seven ▣ vertically. It looks like this, from WP:

Chattanoogan wrote:

It sounds as if you’re possibly attempting to “scan” an existing QR code with your phone … ???

However, from the section title excerpted below, it appears that one is to install the code(s) onto their phone from an authenticated web site [much as one installs an airline boarding pass].

Is THIS where the process is actually failing ?

It also appears that this only downloads a pdf image which can be subsequently displayed.

Displayed QR codes can be scanned, or screenshot and scanned, absent extraordinarily measures by the presenters such as embedding the QR in a DRM-protected video, and even that can be photographed and scanned.

But two QR codes for one record is not going to work.

“How can I save my enhanced vaccine certificate with a QR code to my smart phone? Is it compatible with the Apple or Android wallet?”

Also noted was this disclaimer: “… Work is underway to make it easier for users to add their enhanced vaccine certificate with an official QR code to their Apple or Android wallets …”

I inferred that was a bureaucratic admission of issues and of ongoing remediation work. Whether it is still applicable?

It sounds as if you’re possibly attempting to “scan” an existing QR code with your phone … ???

However, from the section title excerpted below, it appears that one is to install the code(s) onto their phone from an authenticated web site [much as one installs an airline boarding pass].

Is THIS where the process is actually failing ?

It also appears that this only downloads a pdf image which can be subsequently displayed.

“How can I save my enhanced vaccine certificate with a QR code to my smart phone? Is it compatible with the Apple or Android wallet?”

Also noted was this disclaimer: “… Work is underway to make it easier for users to add their enhanced vaccine certificate with an official QR code to their Apple or Android wallets …”

Source:

https://news.ontario.ca/en/backgrounder/1000980/using-your-enhanced-vaccine-certificate-frequently-asked-questions

Chattanoogan wrote:

Interesting info.

I wonder how much of that data space is actually being used …

… and how much is just “padding” ???

We’d need an example image to determine that, and I’ve not encountered an Ontario Health example QR. (And I’d rather not have somebody’s own actual code posted here.)

There’s roughly 7kB available for binary data, but roughly 1.8kB characters is more than enough for a basic record and a URL. Which probably means Ontario Health is doing something comparatively unique.

lkrupp wrote:

Why does anyone need a covid vaccination proof anymore? I thought we were over that nonsense.

“Nonsense” that’s still causing serious medical problems for some of us.

The cognitive issues are particularly concerning.

As for proof, I’d expect some employers and some facilities will require it.

Lenold wrote:

I sort of agree with you. But in that case, why does the province go to the trouble of issuing "Proof" at all? If they're going to give me QR codes, make them work! If not, not.

You’d have to check with the province about that.

IIRC, Wallet was capable of showing the four most recent vaccinations.

”… If they're going to give me QR codes, make them work [in wallet] … “

A completely reasonable expectation.

Every airline and several U.S. states manage to do so. (boarding passes and mobile driver’s licenses)

Ontario certainly has both the “smarts” and the “resources” to do the same.

I don't know of any employer in the United States that requires proof of a covid vaccination as requirement for employment. In fact I believe it’s now illegal to do so, in the U.S. anyway.

I’m not questioning the efficacy of covid vaccinations. In fact I and my wife have gotten every Covid vaccination and booster since day one and I am a big supporter of the science of vaccines and deplore the junk science being pushed by there current administration.

What I do question is the proof of the covid vaccination being a requirement of employment or participation in sports, public events, and such. Let those concerned wear N95 masks.

Interesting info.

I wonder how much of that data space is actually being used …

… and how much is just “padding” ???

Why does anyone need a covid vaccination proof anymore? I thought we were over that nonsense.