I feel like I must sound like a broken record. There’s an app for that. There should be an app for that. I wish there were an app for that. What did we do before we had apps for our smart phones?
When I was little there were no cell phones, VCRs, or video games. We had to plan our activities carefully. If we wanted to eat out, we had to get cash at the bank during its open hours or use a credit card. We were able write checks at stores, but most restaurants decided against accepting them.
Every day I marvel at how far technology has come and the conveniences it affords us. So many of those conveniences are in the ways we’re able to manage our finances. We also have greater access to our money.
Automated teller and point of purchase machines let us do everything we do with cash and checks without having to carry cash. The debit cards we use with these machines give us the convenience of credit without the fees and debt. Debit card use is easier on the merchant too because the merchant doesn’t have to pay fees. It’s a win-win for all.
There are still many places that do not have the facility to accept debit or credit cards. There’s an app for that too. Square is a free app for iPhone and Android. This app allows businesses to conduct credit transactions through a reader attached to the phone instead of bulky and costly equipment. I can’t tell what businesses this app is targeted to.
I like the idea and most of the reviews are favorable. The app would be better if it could turn my phone into an ATM or POS any time I shop. What will your smart phone do for you next?