The Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) system is the cornerstone of operations for many businesses. The significance of this technology has driven its rapid evolution over the years. As EPOS has developed, it has prompted other pertinent technologies to compete for the role of its primary interface.
The battle for dominance in this niche has, in many respects, mirrors the broader struggle for mobile OS supremacy. While both Android and iOS have their merits, several factors have propelled Android to the forefront when it comes to EPOS applications.
In this article, we'll delve into the 10 key factors that have made Android the go-to choice for EPOS over its counterpart, iOS.
Open Ecosystem
Android is known for its open-source nature, allowing developers to tailor the system according to specific EPOS needs. This level of customization can't be easily achieved with iOS due to its closed ecosystem. For EPOS vendors, this means Android can be adapted more seamlessly to diverse retail environments.
Business-Friendliness
Android offers a wide array of business-centric features and tools, such as easy integration with Google services like G Suite, Google My Business, and Google Analytics. These tools make it simple for businesses to manage their operations and gain insights from their EPOS data, all while promoting collaboration and productivity. Moreover, Android can easily be integrated with EPOS systems like Leap and self-service kiosks like Breez, making it the perfect choice of OS for such devices.
Cost-Effective Hardware
Android devices, spanning a wide range of price points, offer EPOS solutions for businesses of every size. In contrast, iOS devices, predominantly iPads, are generally more expensive. For cost-conscious businesses, Android’s diverse hardware options make it a more appealing EPOS choice. Businesses using iOS usually report higher overheads when it comes to hardware and support, leading them to increase service prices.
Flexible Payment Solutions
With Android, integrating multiple payment gateways and solutions is more straightforward. The EPOS environment benefits from this versatility, ensuring that retailers can accommodate various payment methods to enhance customer convenience.
Hardware Diversity
From rugged tablets designed for challenging retail environments to compact smartphones for pop-up shops, Android's vast hardware ecosystem ensures there's a device perfectly suited for every EPOS scenario.
Additionally, Android smartphones typically have a longer battery life compared to iPhones. This is because they are often larger, equipped with more powerful batteries, and come with a comprehensive set of tools to detect and manage energy-draining apps, as well as multiple low-power modes to reduce power usage.
Extensive Developer Community
Thanks to its open-source nature, Android boasts a vast community of developers. This means a richer pool of EPOS-specific applications and solutions, allowing businesses to find tools that align perfectly with their needs.
Ease of Integration
Android allows for easier integration with a plethora of third-party tools and systems. In the EPOS landscape, this ensures businesses can effortlessly tie their point-of-sale systems with inventory, CRM, and other backend solutions.
Enhanced Customization
Android's interface can be tailored to serve specific EPOS functions. Whether it’s designing a user-friendly cashier interface or an interactive customer display, the customization possibilities are almost endless with Android.
Multitasking Capabilities
In the bustling retail environment, the ability to switch between EPOS functions swiftly can be a game-changer. Android's native multitasking capabilities ensure that EPOS operations, from billing to inventory checks, can be executed without a hitch.
Regular Software Updates
While iOS is often praised for its timely updates, Android, especially devices under the Android One program, ensures consistent and rapid updates. These updates often bring enhancements crucial for the EPOS environment, ensuring system security and efficiency.
Scalability
As businesses grow, their EPOS needs evolve. Android's versatility ensures that EPOS solutions can scale in tandem with business expansion, without necessitating a complete system overhaul.
While iOS remains a formidable player, the myriad advantages offered by Android have undeniably positioned it as the champion in the EPOS domain. Android's flexibility, open-source nature, and wider device compatibility give businesses a broader range of options. Its adaptability allows for easier integration with various EPOS hardware, making it a preferred choice for many retailers.
Moreover, the Android ecosystem encourages innovation, leading to more advanced and tailored EPOS solutions. As technology continues to evolve, Android's dominance in the EPOS sector seems poised to grow even further.
