How to accept contactless payments with only a smartphone

Unlock new payment possibilities for your small business with your smartphone. Discover how to take contactless payments with only a smartphone and help boost your checkout experience.

23 May 2025 · 4 minute read

Take payments in more places

As modern technology advances, so has the way you choose to accept payments from your customers. In today’s fast-paced world where convenience is key, embracing flexible payments methods can help your business generate more sales and improve customer experience.

Gone are the days of relying on bulky cash registers and limited payment options. We'll explore how you can tap into payments solution directly from your smartphone to help empower you as a business owner, whilst providing more flexibility for your customers.

 

Embracing the power of your smartphone

Your smartphone doesn’t have to just be a communication device or a source of entertainment. It can be a powerful tool for your business. By harnessing the potential of your device, you can manage your day-to-day business operations with increased efficiency from the palm of your hand.

With advanced software and business solutions, below are some of the ways you can leverage the capabilities of your smartphone:

  • Communicating
  • Managing sales reporting
  • Overseeing marketing campaigns and social media accounts
  • Handling finances
  • Managing employees
  • Accepting payments.

Learn more about managing a business from your mobile phone and operating with more freedom and flexibility.

 

The benefits of accepting payments with your smartphone

Accepting payments with your smartphone can help you enjoy increased efficiency for your small business. Let’s break down some of the key benefits of this payment solution below.

 

Flexibility

Say goodbye to being tied to a stationary cash register or point of sale (POS) system if this no longer serves your business well.

You now have the flexibility to take contactless payments in more places, with less limitations. There’s no need to confine yourself to a fixed location.

Regardless of whether you're a food truck owner, a small boutique owner, a personal trainer, or a freelance professional, the ability to accept contactless payments on the go can be a complete game changer. You can expand your reach and connect with your customers in new and exciting ways.

 

Simple set up

Using your smartphone to accept contactless payments, means that no extra hardware or device is needed.

Simply find and download a payment app that is suitable for your device from the wide range of payment apps available. Follow any instructions from the app vendor and/or your device manufacturer to get things set up.

 

Convenience

Contactless payments on your smartphone can also offer greater convenience and benefits for your customers. By offering this payment solution, you can provide not only a smooth experience but can also cater to many customers who prefer using mobile wallets and making cashless payments.

To learn more about how to use payments technology to benefit both your customers and your business, read our introduction to EFTPOS for business.

 

Security

When you accept payments with your smartphone, you benefit from the security and privacy features that come with your smartphone.

Additionally, accepting digital payments can reduce the need for handling cash, which can help minimise the risk of theft, loss or human error.

 

Versatility for various small business types

Receiving payments on a smartphone is suitable for a wide range of businesses and scenarios. Let’s explore some different examples below.

 

Businesses wanting extra flexibility or a backup option

Using a smartphone could be a great option for businesses needing additional payment solutions during peak periods or busy times.

Or alternatively, it could be a useful backup option when experiencing EFTPOS hardware issues or during system outages.

Explore ways to help boost EFTPOS resilience.

 

Businesses providing services

If you offer services like personal training or beauty treatments, using your smartphone to accept payments can help make transactions quick and easy.

You can focus on delivering exceptional service while enabling a smooth checkout process for your customers.

 

Freelancers and Tradespeople

Photographers, consultants, plumbers, electricians, and other professionals who operate on the go can benefit from accepting payments from their smartphones.

There’s no need to worry about additional hardware or remembering to bring a separate payments device. It can also reduce the need to carry around large sums of cash or deal with cheques or invoicing delays.

 

Hospitality businesses

Food trucks, coffee carts, and other businesses operating within the hospitality industry can benefit greatly from accepting payments on a smartphone.

This payment solution can help you move quickly through lines, queue bust and minimise wait times, which in turn, can help improve your customers’ experience.

 

Transform how you take payments

By utilising your smartphone to receive payments, you could revolutionise your business operation. Whether you're a small retailer, a service provider, or a mobile business, leveraging your smartphone can empower you to meet the needs of today's customers and help your business stay ahead of the curve.

Embrace the possibilities, unlock new checkout experiences, and watch your business thrive in the digital age.

 

First published May 2024, updated 2025.

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