Scanning a QR code with a mobile phone will let users rent a bicycle in Zhangjiagang of Jiangsu province. The system, the first of its kind on the Chinese mainland, was developed by Jiangsu Feitian Science & Technology Co Ltd and Southeast University.

Scanning will unlock the bicycle. Upon returning the bicycle, the user must put it into the locking machine and scan the QR code again.

Wang Jianjun, a manager of the company, said the “intelligent key” is actually a mobile phone app system. With the app, users will also be able to find the nearest public bicycle renting site and learn how many bicycles are available.

Furthermore, users can check their own record of renting and returning bicycles.

The process of renting a public bicycle is optimized by the system. For example, users can return the bicycle the next day if they reach the location and find there is no space for another bicycle. The app also enables users to rent bicycles without their public transportation cards.

Dong Jiangang, deputy director of the Zhangjiagang Science and Technology Bureau, said the system provides a professional solution for public bicycle renting system in cities, parks and scenic spots around the country, and makes it easier for people to travel in a more environment friendly way.