Retailers Interested In Apple’s iPod-based Point-of-Sale System

Ed Sutherland ()

easypay

It appears Apple’s iPod touch-based point-of-sale system is drawing interest from retailers looking to use the current proprietary hardware and software for selling more than Macs and iPhones. The Cupertino, Calif. company is considering commercializing the system following massive interest.

“Since the debut of the iPod POS, inquiries have been coming from all directions, including from end-user small businesses, larger chains and system integrators,” according to ifoAppleStore. The iPod maker has instructed Apple Store salespeople to collect contact information from people expressing interest “apparently to create a database of potential customers,” the report said.

In November, Apple reportedly began introducing its EasyPay checkout system to help floor and stockroom employees at various Apple Store retail locations. The system is built around an iPod touch enhanced with a barcode scanner and magnetic stripe reader. The goal is to improve service and customer contact. The system’s customized software allows any employee to exchange an iPhone or iPod while on the floor, rather than sending customers to a Genius Bar support area, for example. The system could also handle customer transactions, including enabling customers to sign for credit card purchases using the iPod’s screen.

Earlier this year, Apple decided to ditch the previous Windows CE-based EasyPay system in its stores after reports the portable computers were slow and crashed.

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[Via AppleInsider, 9to5Mac and MacRumors]

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About the author

Ed Sutherland

Ed Sutherland is a veteran technology journalist who first heard of Apple when they grew on trees, Yahoo was run out of a Stanford dorm and Google was an unknown upstart. Since then, Sutherland has covered the whole technology landscape, concentrating on tracking the trends and figuring out the finances of large (and small) technology companies.

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  • FeralFreq

    I saw one at the store I go to. Used the credit card and signed using my finger. Totally fast. Couldn’t believe how much faster it was. I’m told all the sales staff have them.

  • Charli

    it is my understanding from staff at my local store, the software was written by Apple, for Apple’s internal systems (which were all custom written for them) so they will never sell the software. period.

    however, the cradle thing with the scanner, swiper and battery, perhaps. but I’m betting not for several months to a couple of years. or maybe they will let folks license the tech and build their own (I”m sure Apple patented the design techs)

  • Greg

    Finally, a killer app for the iPod Touch. I see this being popular with vendors at country market days and swap meets.

  • http://dominicastewart.com Dee

    It is always so nice to go into an Apple Store, find someone to help me, and then be able to instantly check out right there wherever I am with that person. No going to wait in a line. I love it. Even the busy days at my store are not THAT bad.