Irrestistible rise of the gadget
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The supermarket chain Safeway is to update its hand-held shopping scanner - designed to help customers to keep a running total of their purchases and cut check-out queues. The new hi-tech device will be able to say "hello" to shoppers when they arrive, and tip them off about special offers it thinks might interest them.
The gadget expands the self-scanning system, already used in 130 Safeway stores, which tots up shoppers' bills as they go round the store, so reducing check-out queues. But by using information gleaned through Safeway's loyalty card scheme, this latest scanner is able to interact with each customer on an individual basis.
Shoppers slot their cards into the machine when they pick up their trolleys. The computer can then tap into the vast databank of information about shopping habits compiled over past visits.
The first shoppers to experience the Handiscan's personal service will be at the chain's store in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. It will be introduced in about 50 stores by the end of the year.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments