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PayPal supports Mobile Malls with QR Codes by Victoria Gough | 22 February 2012 | 0 Comments

Being a female gives me the right to be a shopaholic…correct? So when I heard about the latest craze, ‘Mobile Malls’, hitting 15 metro stations in Singapore, I couldn’t wait to find out more.  

It seems PayPal have struck gold (in my mind) by creating this new mobile shopping trial. The idea is that whilst you stand and wait for your train to arrive, you can do some much needed shopping. PayPal in conjunction with a few different companies have created these billboards and posters which have a unique QR code placed next to each item and by using your smartphone you can purchase the product on display.

I love the concept and give kudos to PayPal for once again stepping into new territory with regards to innovative solutions, especially in the mobile payment scene. This new system which they have called “shop and pay on the go” is just another step in the right direction.

QR Codes

QR codes are well known around the world. These codes are used in many adverting ventures including on posters and billboards. PayPal is sticking its neck out in the hopes of increasing the reach and value of the current QR code by creating what will essentially be known as the QR payment system. It takes just two clicks and the item on the billboard is yours, easy enough.

Why Singapore

PayPal selected Singapore for the trial as their consumers have been listed as the most mobile and tech savvy in the world with smartphone penetration hitting 70% within the country and around the same amount (according to a survey) were willing to buy products using their mobile phone. The trial seems to be taking off in Singapore and many others are starting to show interest in the concept.

How to use “shop and pay on the go” 

Firstly you will need to {be living in Singapore} download the PayPal QR code reader app, which scans the barcodes and allows you to log into PayPal to purchase the items of your choice. Secondly, you need to start shopping!!

I’m loving this new technology and hoping that it takes off and eventually lands up in South Africa so I can give it a bash. There’s nothing like a new shopping experience to get a girl excited and especially a geek like me.