What's coming next in Point of Sale (cash register) systems ?

[Former Member]

With the amount of activity happening in mobile devices, mobile payments, and affordable, pretty secure wireless networking, do you think yesterday's cash register and related applications will evolve into something new, or pretty much stay the same ?

[Former Member]

Pretty much stay the same. Probably more self checkout or more online shopping.

[Former Member]

Not sure I agree - am starting to see collaborative shopping list ideas, loyalty tied to payment processes, and handheld apps for store employees. Retailers like Sephora have taken SAP POS and moved it from Cash Registers to iPod Touch devices with help from our partner Kyrus Solutions.  Have you used any mobile shopping apps, and what do you think?

[Former Member]

if using iPod Touch, does it mean cashier uses iPod Touch to scan the product?

[Former Member]

Yes. A partner called Kyrus Solutions has written an iPod Touch client. Apparently, its best with a bluetooth / embedded scanner/imager in a "shoe" that the iPod slides into, but you can also use the camera. My experience so far is I prefer the "shoe" device, as they can also support credit cards, gift cards, etc.

[Former Member]

Colin:

This is just matter of time ! Specially with Fashion / Speciality or Luxury retail store segment, this will happen faster.

However if you look at Supermarkets, Departmental stores  and Grocers, they need more robust solution for easy and early check outs system. Lines are big and they also take lot of store space.  I believe it would be interesting to see e-Cart in action, where complete check-out can happen without checkout station.No Scanning and No Credit Card Payment - all in one using Mobile device. I see - this is coming soon..