Increase file size limitation in QR Code Generation

[Xolo978]

Problem: File Size Limitation in QR Code Generation

Description

The current implementation of the QR code generator tool supports encoding small files (< 2KB) into a single QR code. However, this limitation arises due to:

1. The inherent data capacity of QR codes (~3KB for raw binary data).
2. The use of Base64 encoding, which introduces ~33% overhead, further reducing the practical size limit.

This restricts users from encoding slightly larger files (e.g., 2.5KB uncompressed), even after compression.

Proposed Approaches

1. Maximize QR Code Capacity:

   • Switch from Base64 encoding to QR code's native binary mode.
   • Use compression (e.g., pako.deflate) to further reduce file size before encoding.
   • This approach increases the effective file size limit to ~2.9KB.

2. Split Large Files into Multiple QR Codes:

   • Files exceeding the ~2.9KB limit could be split into chunks.
   • Each chunk is encoded into a separate QR code.
   • Provide instructions or tools to reassemble the file from multiple QR codes.

Trade-offs

• Maximizing QR Code Capacity:

  • Pros: Keeps the process simple for users, no need for additional scanning steps.
  • Cons: Cannot handle files larger than ~2.9KB, even with compression.

• Splitting Large Files:

  • Pros: Enables encoding of much larger files.
  • Cons: Users need to scan and reassemble multiple QR codes, which may feel cumbersome.

Request for Feedback

Would you prefer to:

1. Prioritize a simpler approach by maximizing single QR code capacity?
2. Implement file splitting to allow for encoding larger files, even if it adds complexity?

[github-actions]

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[amanraox]

great idea @Xolo978. seems good but for 2nd part i am not sure. i'll do some research later. for now try this

[GhostisLive]

Assign it to me as well, I will help.

[amanraox]

ok @GhostisLive

[GhostisLive]

@amanraox can u check if you can generate the qrcode, I cannot generate it after the new UI design.

[amanraox]

yes its working fine.

[GhostisLive]

@amanraox ok, its working now

[Xolo978]

Additional Proposal: Offline File Sharing via Local Network

Given the constraints of QR code capacity (even with splitting and compression), I propose an alternative approach for sharing files offline that could complement or replace the current QR code-only system.

Proposed Solution

The idea is to leverage the file sender's device (e.g., a computer) as a local server that other devices can connect to. Here's how it would work:

1. Local Network Setup:

   • The sender's computer would create a local Wi-Fi hotspot (or leverage an existing one) with a custom SSID and password.
   • This allows nearby devices to connect without requiring internet access.

2. Local Server for File Hosting:

   • A lightweight HTTP server (e.g., Python's http.server) is set up on the sender's device to host the file to be shared.
   • The file is uploaded to the server, generating a unique local URL (e.g., http://192.168.1.1/file).

3. QR Code for File Access:

   • A QR code is generated with the local URL.
   • Other devices connected to the hotspot can scan the QR code to directly download the file from the local server.

Advantages

1. Bypasses QR Code Size Limit:

   • Instead of encoding the file into the QR code, the QR code only points to a URL, allowing for sharing files of much larger sizes.

2. Simplified User Experience:

   • Users don't need to handle multiple QR codes or reassemble chunks. They simply scan the code and download the file.

3. Extends Use Cases:

   • Enables sharing files up to several MBs in size (limited only by the local server's capabilities).

Challenges and Considerations

1. Wi-Fi Hotspot Creation:

   • Not all devices may support creating Wi-Fi hotspots programmatically, and permissions may vary by platform (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux).
   • This would need platform-specific implementations.

2. Firewall and Security Issues:

   • Some systems may block the local server or hotspot creation due to firewall rules or administrative restrictions.

3. Device Compatibility:

   • All recipient devices must support connecting to a local network and scanning QR codes.

4. Implementation Complexity:

   • This approach introduces additional dependencies for server setup and hotspot creation.

Would this approach align with the project goals as a complement or alternative to the current QR-based system?

• If yes, are there any concerns regarding its implementation or user adoption?
• If no, should we focus solely on improving the QR code-based method despite the size limitations?