Content about Smartphones

ATLANTA — Integration of social and mobile media, as well as shipping options and flexible returns, can drive brand loyalty as consumers seek out more choices and convenience when shopping online, according to a new study.

ST. LOUIS — Aisle411, a mobile retail navigation service, on Tuesday announced that its mobile shopping and searchable store maps smartphone app is available to use within more than 12,000 retail stores throughout the United States. 

SAN FRANCISCO — Fitbit on Monday released the Fitbit Flex, the only activity tracking wristband on the market to sync wirelessly on-the-go via Bluetooth 4.0 to select iOS and Android devices. With Flex’s all-day wearable design and its all-new customizable online dashboard, users can seamlessly make fitness a part of their everyday lifestyle and check their stats from anywhere. 

According to research, ownership of smartphones and tablets in particular have grown rapidly over the past couple of years, and that has created a multi-headed omnichannel hydra of a customer who retailers across all channels are desperately trying to appease.

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — CVS/pharmacy on Friday announced that up to 1 million free smartphones will be offered to eligible customers, allowing easy access to its convenient mobile app. Upon receipt of the phone, consumers will receive a text message prompt to download the CVS Mobile app to provide the convenience of CVS/pharmacy stores and pharmacy services at their fingertips so they can save time and money.

TROY, Mich. — Five regional retailers — including mass-merchandisers Meijer and Fred Meyer — are selling a mobile point-of-sale credit card processing system compatible with most smartphones and tablets in their stores.

BEAVERTON, Ore. — Starting this month, the more than 8.6 million readers of Costco Wholesale's member magazine will be able to use smartphones and tablets to scan more than 50 digital watermarks included in articles and ads.

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Late last year, Walmart rolled out the pilot program for a new mobile initiative called "Scan & Go" to 70 stores in the Atlanta and Bentonville, Ark. areas, where the company is based. Now, the mass merchandise retailer is expanding the program after a successful test run.

Smart device usage has become an active part of in-store shopping. According to a recent poll of Accent-Health smart device owners, nearly 3-out-of-5 have used their phone or tablet to aid in product selection while shopping in-store. However, consumers are more likely to research their next TV on their mobile device than their prescription medication. According to AccentHealth VP market research, Natalie Hill, "When it comes to medical treatment, healthcare professionals remain the most trusted source for information.

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J. — Smartphones are turning every moment into a candid photo opportunity, which means a glowing complexion is more important than ever. That is why Pond's skin care products is partnering with supermodel Molly Sims to help women look their best every day.

AUSTIN, Texas — AccAssociates, a developer of applications for both iPhone and Android, has created a new phone app, dubbed Tampon Minder, that keeps women informed and in control of their tampon placement.

“A drug store in the palm of your hand.” That’s what Walgreens calls the fast-growing suite of health and pharmacy services now available from many retail pharmacies to Americans with smartphones.

Technology vendors, pharmacies and other health providers are keeping pace with a slew of interactive health offerings.  For proof, one need look no further than the nation’s biggest drug store retailers.