Walmart has reportedly started testing a new iPhone-based self-checkout system. Taking a test spin first at a Walmart in Arkansas, the program would allow a customer to scan merchandise using his or her iPhone, and then pay for the items in their cart without ever having to deal with a cashier in the process..
Customers bag their purchases as they shop, and are required to stop by a self-checkout to pay for them before leaving the store, so you’re not actually finalizing your purchase on your phone.
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The app also allows customers to create virtual shopping lists, and see what items on their list are in stock.
According to Reuters, Walmart exclusively invited employees with iPhones to participate in a test run of the system. After launching first with those employees the store also reportedly asked its staff to extend the offer to participate to friends and family.
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The company recently announced it would be adding more self-checkout lanes to Walmart and Sam’s Club stores in an effort to cut costs and lower prices for customers. iPhone-based self-checkouts could be the next in that plan.
"We're continually testing new and innovative ways to serve customers and enhance the shopping experience in our stores," Walmart spokesman David Tovar told Reuters.
If one of the world’s biggest retailers is successful, it could mean a change in how we do business not only at Walmart but other stores as well, helping to reduce costs for both businesses and consumers in the process.
Would you like the ability to scan your purchases with your phone while you shop? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
[via Reuters]
This story originally published on Mashable here.