The term "SoftPOS" stands for "software point of sale." The payment function is built into a certified app and uses the NFC chip in a compatible device. The customer holds their contactless card, smartphone, or wearable device up to the terminal, and the payment is processed through the payment partner.
You'll need a supported smartphone with NFC, a compatible version of the operating system, an internet connection, a merchant contract, and the provider's SoftPOS app. The device must be configured securely and kept up to date.
Compatibility varies by provider. Check the brand, model, operating system, region, and any security requirements before purchasing a device or using an existing one.
The merchant enters the amount or receives it from a supported application. The customer holds their card or mobile payment device up to the smartphone. The app displays the status and provides a digital confirmation based on the provider’s capabilities.
For amounts or card types that require verification, a PIN or other authentication step may be requested if the certified solution supports it. The actual user experience depends on the provider, device, and payment method.
In cases of very intensive use, a separate receipt printer, a fixed POS integration, extensive card applications, or a device shared by many employees, a traditional payment terminal may be more practical. Battery life, durability, and management are also factors to consider.
So SoftPOS isn't automatically “the successor” to every terminal. It's an additional form factor that, in the right context, can reduce hardware and costs.
Use a device with a screen lock, the latest security updates, and only the necessary apps. Install SoftPOS only from the provider’s official channel, and do not share accounts among employees when personal access is possible.
Manage lost or stolen devices using remote wipe and revoke access immediately. It’s best to keep business and personal data separate, especially when the smartphone also contains customer or order information.
SoftPOS is particularly useful when flexibility is more important than specialized hardware. Check compatibility, payment methods, and usage scenarios in advance, and decide whether the smartphone will serve as your main terminal, an additional payment point, or a backup solution.
OmEs pay evaluates device compatibility, contract terms, card mix, and potential integrations. This way, you’ll know in advance whether SoftPOS is sufficient or whether it’s better to use it alongside a traditional terminal.
