Snapchat is reportedly developing a new ad product based on scanning print materials or another screen with the smartphone camera, QR code-style, in order to unlock content in its app.

According to The Information, a potential use case would be as a way of accessing special offers. The product is set to roll out this autumn – unless it gets killed off before it reaches market, which is always a possibility.

This is just the latest example of Snapchat searching for a new way to monetise its incredibly popular app. The companys ad offering saw a major expansion in June, and recent months have also seen a patent for ads served based on recognition of real world objects.

More officially, Snapchat has also introduced a new feature today, Geostickers, which could also potentially act as a revenue source for the company in future. Similar to the apps existing Geofilters, these are customised images unlocked based on the users current location – initially in 10 cities, from London to Honolulu, São Paulo to Riyadh – which can then be overlaid onto the users photos.

Don’t forget to enter the Effective Mobile Marketing Awards. The final deadline for submissions is 5 August. More details here.