Walmart Launches New Apps for iPhone and iPad
November 9, 2011 1:20 PM | Apple | Software | Comments (0)
 Today's announcement builds on Walmart's commitment to technology innovation for the next generation of commerce. The two free applications are the first of several mobile products to be rolled out from the recently formed @WalmartLabs group under Walmart's Global eCommerce unit. The iPhone application features new updates that include smart shopping lists with integrated access to manufacturers' coupons and support for QR code scanning. Walmart's first-ever iPad application delivers a rich experience that allows customers to browse, search and purchase their favorite items online, as well as the ability to browse the inventory of their local store from the comfort of their home. |
"Today, mobile allows us to have a similar personal relationship with our customers that Sam Walton had with his customers 50 years ago when he opened the first Walmart store," said Gibu Thomas, Walmart's senior vice president of mobile and digital. "We can greet each of our customers by name, guide them through our stores, and give them product recommendations and real-time savings — all from their mobile devices."
Consumers are using mobile devices in greater numbers this year to enhance their shopping experience. According to a recent Nielsen report,50 percent of mobile phone users will have smartphones by the end of 2011, and the National Retail Federation*estimates that over 52 percent of smartphone users will use their devices for holiday shopping.
New iPad App
Walmart's new app created specifically for the iPad places more time and money-saving power into the hands of its customers. Key features include:
- Touch-optimized shopping: Browse, search and purchase favorite items by combining traditional ways of shopping with the unique capabilities of the iPad. Browse My Store: Select any local Walmart store to see product availability and detailed information specific to that store.
- Extended inventory: Shop and purchase Walmart.com merchandise in addition to viewing local store inventory.
Walmart's new updates to its iPhone app deliver one of the most comprehensive shopping apps in retail. Creating smart shopping lists, scanning QR codes and accessing product information has never been easier. Key features include:
- Voice: Add items to shopping list by speaking, typing or scanning bar codes.
- Budgeting tools: Calculate total price in real-time as specific items are added to mobile shopping lists.
- Manufacturer's coupons: View applicable manufacturer coupons for products carried in local Walmart stores.
- Product information: Access product details, including customer ratings and reviews, as well as local product availability and prices.
- Sharing: Email shopping list to friends and family.
- Store Item Finder beta: Display in-store aisle location of products in select stores across the country.
The iPad app is now available for free through Apple's App Store in the Lifestyle category, and the updated iPhone app will be available soon. More information is available at www.walmart.com/mobile.
"Smartphones to Overtake Feature Phones in U.S. by 2011" Roger Entner. The Nielsen Company.
*"2011 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey" National Retail Federation. Oct. 19, 2011. Learn more.
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