Boston-based 121nexus said it can solve UDI supply chain master data problems through image recognition technology.

Experts say the best apps on the market are “peace of mind” apps. 121nexus aims to deliver that feeling with its scanner.

The company launched a free scan app that can verify and “open up” GS1 and unique device identification (UDI) barcodes. The technology validates both GS1 and UDI data while creating an action-based user interface to ensure patient safety and supply-chain efficiency. The 121nexus scanner is now available free for iOS in the Apple App Store (its free, but requires in-app purchases to be really useful).

The biggest problem the scanner tackles is actionable data. Users have the ability to provide detailed feedback on why a particular barcode is invalid—enabling the user to take action to correct the barcode. The validation checker checks against 128 GS1 Application Identifiers and validates field length, types of characters, combinations of character types, and the date format.

In addition, the results of the scan are automatically verified against FDA’s FDA’s DA’s Global Unique Device Identification Database (GUDID) as well as the manufacturers’ digital content. Using an iOS device camera, the 121nexus Scanner App reads all widely used barcode types in the healthcare industry and delivers device specific information required in GUDID as well as product-specific information when manufacturers are integrated. The platform integrates with a manufacturer’s existing SAP or Salesforce system to provide a complete top-down data aggregation and cleansing technology.

Individual users can customize their experience to scan from integrated manufacturers as well.

For the medical device industry, the application enables a system that satisfies evolving regulatory requirements for labeling traceability and risk management, while delivering operational value to manufacturers and easy information access to physicians and patients.