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I'm a bit confused about what these guys do even after reading that article. Could someone clarify?

• asabjorn 13y ago
  They provide an API for integrating credit card readers into Point of Sale Systems (POS) like e.g a grocery store checkout system or a mobile app to take payments when the card is present. Besides user convenience compared to entering the credit card information manually the transaction fees for card-present transactions are much lower due to reduced transaction-risk.
• nairteashop 13y ago
  Say you are a small retail chain that accepts credit card payments at the cash register, and you want to make things more efficient (Apple-store style) by also accepting payments via portable devices that your employees carry around. You have a couple of options: a. Invest in proprietary portable payment devices (what Apple does) b. Sign up for a service like Square and invest in iPods or iPhones Primary problems with (a) are cost and possibly an outdated interface. Problem with (b) is the payments are not tied into your existing infrastructure, and you have to live with Square's 2.75% fee, which may be higher than what you've already negotiated with your card providers. With CardFlight, you get a card reader like Square's, but you can use their SDKs to collect and send payments into your existing card infrastructure. Square is ideal for independent coffee shops and the like, but if you're a small business with a few locations, something like this is probably the better solution.
  • jonahx 13y ago
    tyvm, exactly the explanation I was looking for. So, to be clear, the responsibility would still be on you to use their SDK to create a custom app that would interface with the CardFlight card reader, correct?
    • nairteashop 13y ago
      Correct, or use their SDK to enhance your existing app with the ability to accept payments.