Researchers at the Monash University School of Physics and Astronomy and the Czech Academy of Sciences have shattered the Guinness World Record for the smallest QR code with a pixel size of just 50 nanometers and a total area of 2,500 square nanometers — smaller than a single COVID-19 virus.
Record-Breaking Dimensions
The entire QR code measures just 50 by 50 nm², making it almost 800 times smaller than the previous record holder, according to a report by TechRadar Pro. For context, the current world record was set in February 2026 by a collaborative effort between TU Wien and Cerabyte, with pixels measuring 49nm and a total size of 1.98 square micrometers. The new code's entire area is only slightly larger than a single pixel of that record, and roughly the same size as a single COVID-19 virus.
The following table compares the two records:
| Feature | Previous Record (TU Wien / Cerabyte) | New Submission (Monash / Czech Academy) |
|---|---|---|
| Pixel size | 49 nm | 50 nm (single atom) |
| Total area | 1.98 μm² | 0.0025 μm² (2,500 nm²) |
| Construction material | Not specified | Individual silver atoms |
| Scanner required | Electron microscope | Electron microscope |
| Scannable by phone? | Not reported | Yes |
Construction Process
Each pixel of the microscopic QR code is constructed using individual atoms of silver positioned with an ultra-precise scanning tunnelling microscope, the researchers explained. The silver atoms are placed under an ultra-high vacuum and cryogenic temperatures. A tiny needle just a few atoms wide moves the silver atoms, allowing them to quantum tunnel onto the mounting surface.
“We very gently brought our probe, coated in silver atoms, into contact with a silver surface,” said Dr Oleksandr Stetsovych from the Czech Academy of Sciences. “With the right conditions, we can leave behind a single atom exactly where we want it.”
The team used a large amount of finely-tuned automation to form the pattern. “Then we manually adjusted and aligned the final atoms to make the QR code fully scannable,” added Dr Benjamin Lowe, also from the Czech Academy of Sciences.
Functional and Purpose
Despite its minute size, the QR code is fully functional and can be scanned using a mobile phone — though an electron microscope is required to view it. When scanned, the code directs users to “SPM Pro Tips”, an international outreach initiative about scanning probe microscopy. The site also features a gallery where verified researchers can submit images of their own micro-creations, such as a kagome lattice or what may be the world’s smallest recreation of Space Invaders.
Record Status and Stability
At present, Guinness World Records has not formally confirmed the submission as the official record holder. The team told TechRadar Pro that they have applied and are waiting to hear back. One open question is the stability of the microscopic structure when taken out of the precise conditions required for its construction. Cerabyte’s current record holder was noted for its balance of size, stability, and durability.
What to watch: Whether Guinness World Records ratifies the submission and whether further refinements improve the code's durability under ambient conditions.
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