Mobile POS (Point of Sale): the mobile electronic payment terminal
What is a mobile POS?
A mobile POS (mobile electronic payment terminal) is a device designed to accept credit and debit card payments. Unlike fixed terminals, it allows transactions to be carried out away from the usual point of sale, such as during an event or at a customer’s home. These devices can handle various types of transactions, including contactless payments. This solution is practical and economical, making it especially suitable for small businesses, mobile vendors, and nomadic activities. With technology, it is even possible to turn a smartphone into a real mobile POS terminal, providing even more flexibility.
How to turn your smartphone into a mobile POS?
You can transform your smartphone into a mobile POS thanks to SoftPOS (Software Point of Sale), a technology that enables you to receive payments directly on your phone. The process is simple. You just need to download a dedicated payment app. Several solutions are available on the market, such as PayWish by Market Pay. To use the Tap to Pay payment solution on iPhone, simply activate Tap to Pay, as NFC is already integrated into the iPhone. You will enjoy the features of a payment terminal and can receive payments. The smartphone functions like a regular POS. The merchant can manually enter the transaction amount or retrieve it directly through their management software. The customer only needs to bring their bank card or digital wallet close to the phone to confirm the payment. For amounts above €50, it is generally necessary to enter a PIN or perform additional authentication. The receipt can then be sent to the customer in different ways: a QR code or even an email.
How does a mobile POS work?
For standard mobile POS terminals, the operation is equally straightforward. First, you must install a dedicated app on your smartphone. Then, for payments, proceed as follows:
- Wirelessly connect the smartphone (or tablet) to the mobile POS via Bluetooth.
- Enter the amount in the mobile app and initiate the transaction.
- The amount will be displayed on the terminal.
- The customer inserts their card into the terminal and enters their PIN (or makes a contactless payment using NFC technology).
- Once the payment is complete, the receipt will appear on the phone. You can then send it to the customer via email or SMS. Some models also allow for on-site ticket printing.
Why choose a mobile POS for your business?
Simply because these terminals offer multiple benefits for both businesses and their customers. Here are a few:
Flexibility for merchants and their customers
One of the major advantages of a mobile POS is its flexibility. Unlike traditional payment terminals, mobile POS devices work via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections, enabling transactions anywhere. Whether you work in a physical store or on the go, a mobile POS adapts perfectly to your needs. This allows merchants to accept payments even at temporary events like trade shows or markets, while offering their customers a smooth shopping experience.
Secure, decentralized payments accessible to all
In addition to flexibility, mobile POS systems ensure secure payments through advanced protocols like PCI DSS, which protects customers' banking data. These terminals also decentralize the payment process, meaning you no longer need a fixed cash register to receive payments. This security and accessibility make life easier and encourage the adoption of these tools.
Reduced infrastructure costs
Opting for a mobile POS also reduces infrastructure costs related to your payment system. Unlike fixed terminals, mobile POS devices are generally less expensive. Plus, there’s no need for complex installation.
Easy to use and quick to install
Setting up a mobile POS is a breeze. Simply connect the terminal to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, then download a dedicated app. This ease of use makes it accessible even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. In just a few minutes, you’re ready to accept electronic payments without the need for complicated training.
Acceptance of multiple payment methods
Today, the variety of payment methods is a strong expectation from consumers. With a mobile POS, you can accept not only traditional bank cards but also more modern solutions such as contactless payments or digital wallets. This expands your payment options and improves the customer experience.
Improved customer experience
By offering a wide range of payment options, a mobile POS enhances the customer experience. Not only can your customers pay with their preferred method, but they also benefit from fast and simple transactions. This reduces waiting times, streamlines the purchasing process, and increases overall satisfaction, which is a valuable asset for customer loyalty.
Real-time sales tracking
Mobile POS systems allow for real-time tracking of your sales and transactions, even those made on your other sales platforms, all from a connected platform like Market Pay Hub. By accessing detailed reports, you can analyze your sales performance, identify peak periods, and adjust your strategies accordingly.
Mobility for on-the-go sales
One of the great advantages of a mobile POS is the ability to take it anywhere with you. For merchants who work on the go, a mobile POS is an ideal solution. You can immediately process payments from your customers!
Compatibility with loyalty programs
Mobile POS systems integrate seamlessly with loyalty programs, allowing you to reward customers based on their purchasing habits. Pay-On-Site offers features like personalized QR Codes for loyalty program enrollment, as well as loyalty app installation directly on the terminal. These features help strengthen customer attachment to your brand by simplifying the management of loyalty programs.
Simplified transaction and inventory management
Finally, with a mobile POS, transaction management becomes much smoother. Each payment is recorded in real-time, giving you a clear view of your sales. You can track transaction history, quickly resolve any issues, and monitor your performance. Additionally, some mobile POS systems help manage your inventory, reducing the risk of stock shortages.
Can I accept card payments without an internet connection?
Mobile POS terminals often require an active connection to process transactions. These connections can be made via Bluetooth or directly through Wi-Fi or cellular networks, depending on the POS model used. Bluetooth terminals connect to a mobile device (like a smartphone or tablet) and use its 3G/4G/5G or Wi-Fi connection to function. Some Wi-Fi or GPRS POS devices offer more autonomy by connecting directly to the internet without needing another device.
How do I issue a receipt with a mobile POS?
Issuing a receipt to your customers is essential for ensuring transparency and traceability for each transaction. With a mobile POS, this process is simple and fast. Once the card payment is completed, a digital receipt is generated. You have several options to send it to the customer:
- Printed receipt: Some mobile POS devices come with an integrated printer, generating a paper receipt you can hand to the customer, similar to a traditional receipt.
- Digital receipt: If your mobile POS doesn’t have a printer or you prefer a more eco-friendly option, you can send the receipt electronically. Terminals often allow receipts to be sent via email, SMS, or messaging apps.
Mobile POS: a key element in an advanced payment ecosystem
The mobile electronic payment terminal (POS) has become an essential tool for merchants, artisans, and companies undergoing digital transformation. By integrating advanced payment features, these terminals simplify payments, adapting perfectly to an increasingly connected customer base.
SoftPOS: accepting payments via your smartphone
SoftPOS technology further revolutionizes payment solutions for merchants. Unlike traditional POS systems—including mobile ones—which require a specific device, SoftPOS turns a regular smartphone into a payment terminal that accepts card payments. With a SoftPOS solution, there’s no need to purchase an additional terminal—an Android phone is enough.
Need a payment solution for pop-up sales? Thanks to this technology, you can quickly and easily accept payments, ensuring a smooth experience for your customers. Discover NFC payments with PayWish.
Apple’s mobile POS and Tap to Pay payment method
For iPhone users, there’s an interesting solution: Tap to Pay. With this solution, merchants can now accept contactless payments directly from their iPhones. Payments are processed in seconds by bringing a bank card or another iPhone close to the merchant’s smartphone. These new Apple mobile POS devices eliminate the need for traditional terminals for some users.
What payments are accepted via mobile POS?
Mobile POS systems accept a wide range of payment methods. Our Pay On Site terminal solution, for example, accepts not only traditional credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex, etc.) but also more modern solutions like contactless payments or digital wallets. PayWish also offers multiple payment options, including Visa, MasterCard, Amex, CB, and options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and even bank transfers.
Conclusion
Choosing a mobile POS offers numerous benefits: flexibility, security, cost reduction, and improved customer experience. It is a modern and effective solution for any type of business, especially for those seeking to combine mobility and efficiency. The mobile POS meets the needs of a generation of customers who prioritize the speed and convenience of electronic payments, and it is likely to continue growing in popularity.
