Since its launch, the iPhone has been the home to several barcode scanner apps that work via the built-in camera. Until recently, however, users have complained about the unreliability of such apps. The launch of the Red Laser barcode scanner, developed by Occipital (who designed the application that makes the iPhone’s camera so good), gives users the functionality of a good, reliable, and easy-to-use barcode scanner.
In a world that is becoming increasingly organized and detail-oriented, shoppers and consumers have to actively seek out the tools that allow them to save the most, and stretch their dollars as far as they go. This has become even more important in the economic decline of the last few years, and the ability to scan a barcode yourself to find the price, and compare it to other stores and products via the internet is a mighty tool that is sure to disrupt price gouging and help customers get the best products for the lowest prices.
iPhone apps like the Red Laser or ShopSavvy use the camera to snap a digital photograph of the desired product’s UPC or barcode. They then upload and compare the barcode online to the same and similar products in other shops nearby. All of this data is attractively organized for the user for comparison and decision. This technology allows users to identify potential sales, and to skip false sales.
The technology hasn’t quite been perfected, yet, as a scan of a litre of $1.50 2-litre bottle of soft drink might sometimes show a price comparison for something that costs $15 at a local car parts shop, and that is certainly not edible.
The uses of portable barcode scanners and price comparers are nearly limitless for shoppers. How will this affect your business?