Barcode scanning challenges have long plagued the retail industry, often slowing down operations and frustrating employees. Modern barcode scanning apps on iOS devices frequently struggle with speed, accuracy, and handling damaged barcodes. However, the integration of sleds with iOS devices offers a promising solution to these issues. With future trends indicating significant investments in retail technology, enhancing efficiency and employee satisfaction, advanced solutions such as iOS sleds are crucial for meeting retail demands and driving productivity.

The evolution of mobile technology in retail has been propelled by an urgent demand for rapid, high-quality customer service, especially in the face of persistent labour shortages. While basic handheld barcode scanners and point-of-sale systems streamlined operations, they fell short in providing the necessary solutions for mobile POS systems, inventory management, and real-time data access. To keep up with the constantly changing industry, retailers have started leveraging iOS, ensuring efficient and secure operations while further elevating retail capabilities and customer engagement.

Future trends in iOS are poised to significantly impact the retail industry by enhancing operational efficiency and boosting employee satisfaction. According to a study by Scandit, 41% of workers believe that easy-to-use technology is crucial for fostering workplace loyalty, highlighting iOS's intuitive design as a key advantage. Furthermore, over two-thirds of store associates globally rate their devices as important or very important for their job, indicating that the adoption of iOS can drive productivity and engagement. Gartner predicts that global retail spending on technology will reach $262.6 billion by 2027, underscoring a strong investment in iOS solutions for inventory management, mobile POS systems, and personalised customer interactions. This surge in technology investment will likely lead to increased employee satisfaction and improved operational performance in the retail sector.

However, using iOS devices in a retail setting presents several challenges, particularly with barcode scanning. Modern barcode scanning apps on iOS devices frequently lack:

• Speed & Accuracy
• Field-of-View & Distance Reaches
• Ability to Read Damaged Barcodes

Additionally, iPhones lack side trigger buttons, which are essential for expediting scanning tasks like restocking, and require users to visually depend on the screen to ensure the barcode is within view.

Integrating mobile phone sleds can significantly enhance efficiency and accuracy in retail environments by providing physical trigger buttons and advanced scanning capabilities. According to Zebra's comparative analysis3, using an integrated scan engine with a physical trigger button saves workers 41.36 minutes per day compared to using a consumer device with a camera and virtual button. This 30% time savings allows associates to be repurposed for other value-added tasks or to increase the number of picking and fulfilment scans. The demand for a swift and straightforward upgrade to existing iOS devices, such as mobile device sleds that transform iOS devices into more capable, enterprise-ready tools, has never been greater. Adding a mobile device sled provides instant usability, efficient operation, and quick reading of both linear and 2D barcodes. This meets the demanding requirements of retail environments, ultimately boosting productivity and efficiency.

Barcode scanning challenges have long hindered retail efficiency, but the integration of mobile phone sleds with iOS devices offers a robust solution. These sleds enhance scanning capabilities by providing physical trigger buttons, dedicated scanners that can reach further distances, and the ability to quickly scan barcodes without viewing the screen. This has been proven to save workers time and energy, which can be redirected to other valuable tasks, thereby improving overall productivity and efficiency.

If you're ready to enhance your retail operations and improve efficiency, Levata is here to help. Our team specialises in integrating enterprise mobility solutions that transform your iOS devices into powerful, enterprise-ready tools. From streamlining barcode scanning to boosting productivity and customer satisfaction, we're committed to providing the technology and support you need. Contact us now to get started!