Walmart Releases Scan & Go App for Android

Walmart first tried rolling out its Scan & Go app years ago for iPhone. At its initial release, the app had too many bugs and customers found the app frustrating to use. Now, the Scan & Go app has come to Android. It’s currently only available in two locations: Rogers, Arkansas and Lake Nona, Florida. They are still working on expanding the app to all of their locations nationwide; how quickly this happens most likely depends on how successful the app is at the two current locations.

The Scan & Go app essentially allows you to scan items as you go and then pay for the items in the app. This app works well for both speedy Walmart trips and large shopping sprees. It’s available for free in the Google Play store, too. So, how does this app work exactly?

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How Scan & Go Works

Say you want to buy the necessities for your new apartment. You’ll scan each item’s barcode — or look up the item if it doesn’t have a barcode — before you place it in your cart. The app will then add your item to your digital shopping list. When you’re done, you’ll pay for all of your purchases via the app — all without waiting in line at a register. Similarly to shopping at Costco, you’ll then show your (digital) receipt to a person at Walmart’s entrance/exit. They will make sure that you paid for everything you have in your cart before you can leave.

Why The App Might Succeed

The Scan & Go app has had a lot of setbacks, but for the most part, the app could be successful because it gives customers another way to avoid check-out lines. Some people really hate waiting in lines — this app is an attempt to please those customers. Also, other apps like Sam’s Club’s Scan & Go and Target’s Cartwheel have had a lot of success with customers. Customers have stated that using a company’s app to scan items and look for deals makes the shopping experience more fun.

Possible Issues with the App

If Walmart decides to release this app nationwide, they’re likely to see an increase in malicious activities. It’s possible that hackers will be able to manipulate the app or fake that they purchased their goods before they leave a store. Further, if the app becomes popular, malicious apps mimicking the Scan & Go app are likely to pop up. What if one of these apps is so well-made that it tricks customers into using it in-store and entering their payment information? To protect your information, make sure you run regular virus scans on your device: