Barcode-reading system

A method implemented on a mobile device for performing barcode-reading functions, the method comprising:

• obtaining a barcode-reading application from a mobile-application server;
• obtaining a license code from a license server, wherein obtaining the license code from the license server comprises providing a unique identification code of the mobile device to the license server, and wherein the license server is distinct from the mobile-application server;
• performing a predetermined algorithm on the license code to determine at least one operating permission authorized by the license code;
• and
• enabling an enhanced mode of operation of the barcode-reading application, the enhanced mode of operation comprising at least one enhanced barcode-reading function that corresponds to the at least one operating permission authorized by the license code.

A barcode-reading apparatus, the barcode-reading apparatus comprising:

• a camera;
• at least one processor;
• memory in electronic communication with the at least one processor;
• and
• a barcode-reading application stored in the memory, wherein the barcode-reading apparatus obtained the barcode-reading application from a mobile-application server and the barcode-reading application includes instructions being executable by the at least one processor to:
• obtain a license code from a license server, wherein obtaining the license code from the license server comprises providing a unique identification code of the barcode-reading apparatus to the license server, and wherein the license server is distinct from the mobile-application server;
• perform a predetermined algorithm on the license code to determine at least one operating permission authorized by the license code;
• and
• enable an enhanced mode of operation, the enhanced mode of operation comprising at least one enhanced barcode-reading function that corresponds to the at least one operating permission authorized by the license code.