Handheld barcode scanner is Android & iOS compatible

There must be plenty of apps written for smartphones that take advantage of the barcode revolution but fail to scale up to high volume usage in harsh environments. It has released a new rugged handheld barcode scanner . The device is designed to communicate (via Bluetooth) with apps written for windows Mobile 5.0/6.1/6.5; Apple iOS; and Android. One huge benefit is that this product has GPS built-in. So it can, “Scan barcodes and save the location data simultaneously offering integrated functionality and improved productivity for the user,” as Steve Berry, a director with Maxa, explained. There’s even an option to integrate an RFID reader if you should want it. These capabilities make the Pidion suitable for a wide range of markets sectors – such as transportation; logistics; healthcare; manufacturing; and the public sector – as well as retail.

Being ruggedised, the product can be used in situations where you just wouldn’t want to be standing around trying not to break your iPhone’s screen.

The Pidion is sealed against rain and dust. Plus it can withstand multiple drops to concrete from 1.5 metres. That’s pretty tough.

“The BI-500 is a offering our customers some differentiation in the vastly competitive world of barcode scanning,” Berry claimed.

It will operate with a number of operating platforms – including Windows 7 [not WP7] and Android – allowing integration with Mobile PC and Smartphone applications.”

It’s the sort of product which can turn intelligent smartphone based ticketing applications into a reality.