This paper presents the φ² (‘Phisquare’) Scanner and φ² Barcode Generator – an exploration of physical check-ins for location-based services. The system uses 2D barcodes to retrieve and share semantic location information. Users can scan barcodes at venues that activate a location-based application with the corresponding venue page. This system overcomes problems arising when users have to select their location manually. We expect an enhanced user experience using physical artefacts in location-based services.