The idea of running your entire business from one device may seem crazy, but now with technological advancements, it is the future of retail technology. iPad POS till systems are quickly growing to become the most popular system used when processing physical transactions in retail stores.
In a recent survey Retail Consulting Partners found that with businesses that had not already adopted a POS system, 28% were planning to in the near future which is unsurprising when you consider their benefits.
In the following guide, we take a look at how you can turn your iPad into a point of sale system and why you should make the switch from your traditional till system.
What is an iPad POS till system?
Although EPOS software is primarily software, a POS (Point of sale) system will include a hardware setup that allows you to sell, take payments, print receipts and more, with your iPad acting as your touch screen device.
An iPad POS till system is the process of connecting your iPad to POS hardware via Bluetooth and using an iPad app to run the software, effectively converting your iPad into a POS system in a matter of minutes.
Through a cloud-based system, you will be able to transform your business, streamline operations and become more strategic with your selling, all through one compact device. The beauty of POS software is that you can build a system that meets the needs of your business and it can easily grow with you by adding more devices and hardware as and when you need it.
Using an iPad POS system (or any EPOS System for that matter) gives you greater visibility over your data storing vital information in the cloud that can be accessed and backed up at any time without slowing down your device.
How to turn your iPad into a POS System
So how can you turn your iPad into an iPad POS till system?
There are 2 components, hardware and POS software.
For Software, check our POS software, AirPOS, it’s affordable, easy to use and was built for iPad. Sign up for a free trial, add your products, download the app and you’re ready to get started.
The hardware you need will depend on your business type and needs however we have listed the different pieces of kit you may want to consider to accompany your software in order to build your perfect set-up.
- iPad Tablet: you’ll want an iPad tablet device using the latest iOS. If you have an iPad already you should be good to get started. Just download the AirPOS App for iPad.
- iPad stand: Create a user-friendly set-up that will streamline to the checkout process, placing your tablet front and centre.
- Cash Drawer: Cash drawers are fundamental to your point of sale set-up, allowing you to collect & store cash safely and ensure every penny is accounted for.
- Barcode Scanner: Speed your customers through check out with a modern scanner that recognises products in seconds.
- Receipt printer: Ensure every sale is accounted for and customers can receive a copy to improve their experience and make returns simple.
- Payment integration: Once you have chosen your point of sale system you will have a wide variety of merchant payment integration options that will enable you to take card payments.
- Accounting integration: Another optional but very useful extra. Many businesses do not realise the value in integrating their business with accounting software such as Xero, however, this will save you hours of admin work and also give you greater visibility across your business as a whole.
Why would you choose an iPad POS till system over a traditional till system?
You understand what an iPad POS is and how you could incorporate it into your business, but the question remains why would you?
Many retailers have grown accustomed to using traditional till systems.
So here are 5 reasons why you should upgrade to an iPad POS System.
1. Flexibility
A large benefit of iPad POS till systems is their flexibility, you can build a system that suits your business and fits in with your budget.
This, however, is not the only benefit of flexibility, POS systems such as AirPOS are completely mobile allowing you to take your till system on the go and make sales from even the most remote location.
This has been transformative for those working in events or even niche industries who attend trade events or expos.
2. Reliability
Although some may believe that a traditional till system is more reliable as all your information is stored in your own server, cloud-based POS systems will back up your data and prevent loss in the event of a blackout.
Also, it is worth noting that your data will be protected by the latest data encryption techniques making it much more secure than any other system.
Unlike traditional till systems, POS providers generally offer dedicated online support 7 days a week to ensure that if you do experience an issue with your POS, the problem can be resolved as soon as possible.
3. Visibility
Having an iPad POS system will give you greater visibility, across your business. You will have constant access to real-time reports enabling you to make strategic decisions to boost sales. Use your reports to see business trends, make sure you don’t run out of stock and avoid customer disappointment.
This visibility will also allow you to take time away from your business, placing more trust in your staff. POS software is highly sophisticated removing the opportunity for human error and if worried you will be able to check reports for peace of mind.
4. Scalability
iPad POS systems are built to scale, they suit any business no matter the stage in their lifecycle. The beauty of POS is that you are able to add on extra devices and pieces of hardware when you see fit and there are even options available for those who need to scale up for seasonal periods.
Even if a small business is only starting you can create a system that helps you to manage your operations and process sales but, importantly will not make a major dent in your profits. As mentioned you can get started with your existing iPad device and build out your system gradually as you go.
5. Affordability
One of the main reasons why retailers make the switch to iPad till systems are affordability. There are many options out there in terms of software providers, all differently priced offering different packages, giving you choice when it comes to your set-up.
This means you will be able to choose a hardware package that doesn’t break the bank. You can always add additional hardware items later if needed.
Importantly when it comes to iPad till systems, most people already have the most fundamental piece of hardware, the iPad. You don’t need to buy a new tablet or need a special model, if you have an iPad already you will be able to run POS software through your device.
It is worth noting that although we are speaking about iPad POS this is also true for Android and Windows devices.
How much does an iPad POS System Cost?
The cost of an iPad POS system will vary depending on the company you choose and also the level of functionality you require. On average expect to spend around £700 on an iPad POS system, that would include your iPad hardware and software.
If you already have an iPad it can cost as little as £39.99 for an iPad POS till system.
When choosing your provider make sure to check out what you are getting in terms of built-in features. Many POS providers will function using a module type system, where you pay more for additional features.
Here at AirPOS, we believe in clear transparent pricing with all the features built it to get you started.
Take a look at our quick guide on how to choose the right POS system here.
Already have an iPad and want the complete iPad POS Hardware setup? Check out our iPad POS deal.
Why choose AirPOS to power your iPad POS till system?
AirPOS is the #1 Point of Sale for small retailers within the UK and Ireland. Business owners like you have been able to power their business using their iPad tablet device for over a decade.
AirPOS offers you the following benefits:
- An easy to use POS interface – quick & simple to use.
- Easy inventory management – learn when products are running low, what’s in stock and more.
- Advanced business reports – learn more about your best sellers, top employees, profit margins and much more.
- Accounting integrations – integrate with Xero and save hours of time per week.
- World-class support – we offer world-class support 7 days a week.
- Ecommerce integrations with Shopify – sell online and grow your audience and sales with ease.
- Simple affordable pricing – don’t get caught out by “exclusive” offers with other POS providers with hidden costs and fees. At AirPOS we pride ourselves in offering clear transparent pricing that’s affordable for all business sizes.
AirPOS will work on any tablet device you have whether Apple, Android or Windows and will also integrate with existing hardware you currently use.
We also have some great hardware bundle deals that will get your setup and running with an iPad POS system in no time, just add the iPad.
Our retail bundles are the most comprehensive on the market and come completely free of cost with an annual subscription to AirPOS Pro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an iPad as a cash register?
Yes, when using POS software such as AirPOS you can manage your entire business using your iPad, simply connect it to your point of sale hardware and you have a fully functioning cash register (or POS system).
It’s as simple as downloading a POS app to your iPad, setting up your products, and connecting with your payment terminal.
Once you have done the initial set up you are ready to start selling immediately.
What is a POS system?
Put simply a POS system (or electronic point of sale system) is the point of sale software that can be installed on multiple devices, including, but not limited to mobile devices such as tablets, mobile phones, and laptops.
Typically it would also include a cash drawer and receipt printer as standard.
This software will act as your till, enabling you to speed customers through checkout, process transactions, and manage inventory all on one device.
POS software is cloud-based which allows for easy updates, flexible integrations such as accounting software, increased security, and enhanced reporting when viewing your sales data.
POS Systems are used in the same way as traditional tills however, POS systems offer better functionality, reporting, and ease of use.
How much does an iPad POS system cost?
The cost of iPad POS systems varies depending on your business type, size, and how many POS terminals are needed.
For POS software expect to pay anything from £29-129 per month.
For POS hardware expect to pay approx. £700 which would include your iPad, cash register, scanner, and iPad stand.
When choosing an iPad to power your POS system you will need to consider the cost of each tablet as well as the price of the software and any other pieces of hardware you require.
Which iPad POS system is best for small UK retailers
There are many POS systems available within the UK, all are specifically tailored to different industries.
When looking for an iPad retail-based POS solution AirPOS is ideally positioned to enable small businesses to sell more, both in-store and online offering powerful POS software, dedicated free support, and a number of integration options.
