Ecrio enables mobile barcodes

Ecrio has launched ‘MoBeam’, a patented new service that bridges the gap between mobile handsets and the global barcode POS infrastructure. The new service, available globally has been given an early boost as Visa International has agreed to integrate MoBeam barcode technology into Visa’s recently announced mobile platform (MPW 92).

“Ecrio shares our commitment to deliver the convenience of mobile payments and services to consumers worldwide,” comments Patrick Gauthier, senior VP, innovation, Visa International. “We see MoBeam as a valuable enabling technology for barcode based value added applications using the recently launched Visa mobile platform.”

In addition to the service launch, Ecrio announced that the MoBeam value projector already has been tested on several leading mobile phones, including the ASUS P525, the Hewlett Packard iPaq, the Motorola Q, and the Palm Treo.

For years, technologists have known how to send barcode information to mobile phones (via email, WAP, SMS and more), but have been unable to transfer that barcode information (for tickets, coupons, gift cards, etc.) from the handset to barcode scanning devices. Issues with screen resolution, reflection and other technical limitations have prevented scanners from effectively reading barcodes displayed on a mobile device screen. MoBeam finally solves these longstanding problems, enabling the instant transmission of any barcode sequence from handset to scanner.

“MoBeam is the missing link between today’s mobile consumer and a worldwide commerce infrastructure based on barcodes,” says Nagesh Challa, CEO, Ecrio. “For instance, a traveller using mobile search functions can be sent a digital coupon, easily redeemed at POS via the traveller’s handset. With over 35m scanners in place across the US alone, the existing barcode network will be in place for years to come. We look forward to helping retailers, financial services companies, carriers, handset makers and other barcode partners take advantage of an ecosystem that delivers tickets, coupons, gift cards and more directly into the hands of consumers.”

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