As if phones didn't already do enough, one of the latest mobile apps transforms iPhones and iPod Touches into portable charge card terminals. ProcessAway plugs into Authorize.net's payment processing platform, allowing entrepreneurs to accept credit card payments anywhere they can access the internet.
After downloading the app and (separately) setting up a merchant account with Authorize.net, clients can use ProcessAway like a traditional charge card terminal: enter the amount, input the card number, expiry date and verification code, and process. There's even a tip option for service businesses. Customers receive an email receipt for each transaction, and merchants can view transactions and process refunds on the fly. Aware that consumers might be weary of having their credit card details punched into a phone, ProcessAway stresses that's a secure application: information is never stored in the phone and the program won't connect to anything other than the terminal.
If it can gain trust and acceptance, ProcessAway could be particularly useful for those who need to process and authorise payments on-the-go, like on-site consultants or handymen. It's also useful at venues that don't have fixed terminals: antique shows, market stalls and music merchandise stands.
ProcessAway is available from Apple's App Store for USD 19.99, and Authorize.net collects its usual transaction fees. ProcessAway isn't the only one playing this field: Innerfence released its slightly more basic Credit Card Terminal app late last year. Although both programs are currently only available in the US, they could be a valuable tool for minipreneurs in other parts of the world.
Website: www.processaway.net
Spotted by: Susanna Haynie
This is great. Soon my corner bum will accept visa.
This is great. I am a handyman / contractor and always have a problem with getting paid. most folks don't have cash on hand and I need to invoice them or direct them to Paypal - which takes a week or 2 to get set up and verified.
My invoices for the most part get paid but it usually takes a few weeks if not months in some cases.
With this app, I can pull out my iPhone and settle on the spot...cash or credit (checks only on rare occasion, have had a few bounce wreaking havoc on my cash flow and bank account - and trying to get folks to make good on the check and charges and fines I paid is awkward at best.)
I also sell often on craigslist which is mostly a cash in hand business. With this new app I can let golks know that I accept credit cards on the spot....!
Why pay for this app when you have all the functionality you need to process credit cards already with an iPhone? If you have a merchant account & Authorize.net account you've already got a 'virtual terminal'. Just log in via the web/Safari browser and you can type in all that you would be entering in this iPhone app.
Great idea! can someone please build one for the UK / Europe....
Actually this in not the only app that does it. Here is a good comparative page
http://www.mobileterminalapps.com
PayPodd handles all 5 major gateways:
Authorize.net, WorldPay, 2CheckOut, PayPal Pro, and Cybersource.
http://www.PayPodd.com
So what stops someone 'borrowing' you card without your knowledge and charging it. Does the CC holder enter their PIN?
Theres a brand new app for processing credit cards call Maxx Mobile, and best of all its 100% FREE to download. You just need to sign up for a gateway account and your all set to accept cards through your iPhone.
Tip: be sure to put in the referral code: TTMO7 for the best rates when signing up for a new gateway!
Check out: http://appninjas.com/iswipe